Patria is a highly religious, family oriented woman who has secretly joined the rebellion against Trujillo. She is currently trying to get her family released from prison after they were exposed as rebels against Trujillo’s regime. In this passage, Captain Pena is visiting Patria after purchasing her family farm and agreeing to attempt to get Nelson, Patria’s son, a pardon from prison. During the visit, Patria realizes that Pena is more than the cruel devil she initially thinks he is. She begins to understand that Pena is just a man trying to make a living under Trujillo’s regime, much like she and her family are. This passage exemplifies the mental maturation Patria undergoes throughout the book.
Patria is displaying intellectual courage
Patria is displaying intellectual courage