Rebozo Symbolism

The rebozo in the novel Caramelo had significant meaning and symbolism for the characters and the Mexican culture. What is the rebozo? What does it mean? How important is it to Mexican culture and the women in the novel? Celaya is born of a Mexican immigrant father and a working-class Mexican American mother. She finds herself feeling forced to choose sides. Celaya’s grandmother, Soledad, is the central secondary character on whom all others react. She is the one who is affecting all of those around her. The term Rebozo means “to cover or protect yourself. The garment originated in Mexico during the early colonial period when artisans hoped to emulate the embroidered shawls and mantillas of the Spanish. Its popularity meant it became a central …show more content…
She grew up with parents who were volatile towards one another. At one point in her life, she thought the eagle and the serpent on the Mexican flag were the story of her own mother and father. The rebozo, to Lala, is something she really finds desirable and wants to take ownership in wearing, but also the tension between her American and Mexican roots. Whenever the rebozo is handed down, the girl receiving it is passing through adolescence. For example, Celaya was about the age of fifteen when she received the rebozo. This is the age when a girl of Mexican heritage becomes a woman. When Celaya uses the rebozo to cover herself, she is secluded herself from the rest of the world, which allows her to feel secure and safe. The rebozo at the time also allows her to receive the strength and courage she needed to feel that security. This rebozo not only affected Celaya but also affected the rest of the family. Generally, the female with the rebozo has power and respect. For example, Soledad mainly wears the rebozo, and she is the main adult figure. This shows that if there is an older female with a rebozo, she will most likely have the power because she has the respect, maturity, and