Bless Me, Ultima

**Quiz Question: *Bless Me, Ultima* by Rudolfo Anaya** What does Ultima give Antonio to wear around his neck as a protective charm when she first arrives at his home? A) A silver crucifix B) A small bag of herbs (a *bulto*) C) A golden locket with a saint's image D) A string of dried chili peppers **Correct Answer: B) A small bag of herbs (a *bulto*)** *Explanation: When Ultima moves in with Antonio's family, she gives him a small bag of herbs — a *bulto* — to wear around his neck for protection. This gesture reflects her curandera (healer/folk medicine) traditions and highlights the spiritual connection she has with Antonio.*

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**Quiz Question: *Bless Me, Ultima* by Rudolfo Anaya** Which curandera (healer) moves in with Antonio Márez and his family at the start of the novel, and whose owl acts as her spiritual protector? A) Tenorio's daughter B) Ultima C) La Llorona D) Narciso's wife **Correct Answer: B) Ultima** *Explanation: Ultima, the knowledgeable curandera, comes to live with Antonio and his family when he is still a young boy. Her owl serves as her spiritual companion and protector, playing an important symbolic role throughout the story.*

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**Quiz Question — *Bless Me, Ultima* by Rudolfo Anaya** At the beginning of the novel, why does Antonio's family take Ultima into their home? A) She is Antonio's grandmother on his mother's side and has nowhere else to live. B) She is a respected *curandera* (healer) who cared for Antonio's family, and it is customary to take her in during her later years. C) She is fleeing persecution from the town priest, who has accused her of witchcraft. D) She arrives at the request of Antonio's father, who wants her to bless the family's new home. **Correct Answer: B** *Explanation:* Ultima is a curandera — a folk healer — who played a significant role in Antonio's birth and has a deep connection to his family. As she ages, Antonio's parents honor their relationship by inviting her into their home, setting the stage for the spiritual and thematic journey of the entire novel.

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