Chapter 10 Summer Of The Mariposas

Summary

In Chapter 10 of *Summer of the Mariposas*, the Garza sisters arrive at Teresita's house, weary from their journey and carrying a bleeding goat as a gesture of gratitude. Teresita, an enigmatic figure, forewarns them of the trials ahead due to a curse cast by Cecilia, a sorceress seeking vengeance. As they learn about dark forces like *El Nagual* and the *Chupacabras*, they receive cryptic guidance involving songs and rituals necessary to face their fears. This chapter emphasizes the importance of family, courage, and the journey toward understanding and maturity in the face of supernatural challenges.

Takeaways

• 🌞 The story is set in the intense heat of a summer morning in Mexico, emphasizing the characters' physical struggles during their journey.
• 🐐 The girls bring a bleeding goat as a gift to Teresita, symbolizing a traditional form of gratitude and cultural customs.
• 👵 Teresita is described in a way that blurs gender lines, appearing more masculine than feminine, which adds to her enigmatic presence.
• 🔮 Teresita possesses ancient knowledge and uses a deck of cards to guide the girls, foreshadowing their difficult journey ahead.
• ⚠️ The girls face a challenging road ahead filled with hardships, as they unknowingly anger a witch named Cecilia, leading to supernatural repercussions.
• 👻 La Llorona, a figure from folklore, warns the girls of impending doom, emphasizing themes of humility and the importance of heeding warnings.
• 🌌 Teresita describes the 'evil trinity' as a threat to the girls, consisting of malevolent forces that are a direct consequence of their actions.
• 🎵 The importance of songs and rituals is highlighted as a means to confront and defeat the dark entities they will face.
• 🌿 The narrative incorporates elements of folklore, including the Chupacabras, which adds a layer of tension and cultural context to the story.
• 💪 The girls must confront their fears and stick together to overcome the challenges posed by supernatural beings, illustrating themes of bravery and resilience.

Q & A

What event prompted the girls to visit Teresita?

The girls brought a bleeding goat to Teresita as a gift for her services.

How does the narrator describe the old man they encounter?

The old man is described as wearing a sun-weathered straw hat and faded overalls, and he helps the girls by offering them cold water from a well.

What does Teresita use to help the girls reach their destination?

Teresita uses an old deck of cards with unusual images to provide guidance on their journey to their ancestral home.

What warning does Teresita give about their journey?

Teresita warns the girls that their journey will be difficult and riddled with hardships, particularly because they have angered a witch named Cecilia.

Who is La Llorona, and what role does she play in the story?

La Llorona is a figure who warns the girls about the dangers they face. Although she is perceived as a ghostly figure, she is ultimately trying to help them.

What is the significance of the amulet and earrings given to the narrator?

The amulet and earrings are magical items that the narrator can use to protect her sisters, but she can only use them a limited number of times.

What advice does Teresita provide regarding the chupacabras?

Teresita warns that the chupacabras is real and pure evil. She advises the girls to show no mercy if they encounter it, suggesting they should use a tree branch to defend themselves.

What must the girls do to escape from the letrusas, as per Teresita's instructions?

To escape from the letrusas, the girls must pray seven 'Padre Nuestros' and seven 'Ave Marias' while tying seven perfectly spaced knots on a silk thread.

What does Teresita mean when she says the girls have called upon evil?

Teresita suggests that the girls' arrogance and taunting of Cecilia have summoned negative forces and that they must now face the consequences of their actions.

How does the story convey themes of family and responsibility?

The narrator feels a deep sense of responsibility to protect her sisters from the dangers ahead, acknowledging that her actions have put them in harm's way.