Marriage

Ana’s marriage to Juan symbolizes the premature ending of youth. When Ana is 15 years old, her parents force her to marry a man in his thirties for financial gain and immigration opportunities. Not only is the age difference problematic, but Ana does not love Juan, and she is forced to be subservient to him. Thus, her youth is cut short by these unjust demands on her.

Abuse

The abuse that Juan inflicts on Ana symbolizes the destructive nature of the patriarchy. Juan essentially views Ana as property rather than as a person or an equal in any way. Juan cruelly abuses Ana by repeatedly beating and raping her. Moreover, Ana feels that she has no recourse and that she has a duty to be loyal and subservient to Juan.

Pregnancy

Ana’s pregnancy symbolizes her feelings of responsibility towards other people. Even before Ana becomes...