Read "Bless Me Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya. Set in 1940s New Mexico, this novel explores the relationship between a young boy and an elderly curandera who has come to spend her last years with his family. Upon moving in, she immediately begins to aquaint him with the ancient philosophy and traditions of her craft.

Symbolic Painting:

Find the painting, Curandera, by Ariel. It is filled with organic and magical symbolism.

Notice the female figure directly beneath the main figure of the Curandera. Plants grow from her body directly into the body of the Curandera. This symbolic vegetation thrives throughout her body.

Three hearts containing the profiles of two faces run up her body into her head.

Beneath her healing hands a small pale figure kneels. Symbolic tears run down its face.

A winged head hovering in the left hand corner of the painting gazes down on the Curandera. Its face is in profile and a bold cross seems tattooed under its eye.

Diamond shapes are scattered throughout the upper half of the painting. Some rain, spark-like, from the winged head and hands of the curandera over the small kneeling figure. Other diamond shapes, possessing dark red centers, occupy the otherwise empty spaces of this picture.

Read the article, Curandera, to understand the role these women play in certain latino and/or indian societies. This article will illuminate their intimate connection with nature and sometimes "magic."

Teacher Lesson Plans:

Answer the following questions to help you interpret the meanings of the symbols in this painting.

1. What does the hovering face with wings represent? What makes you think this?
2. Who does the smaller figure beneath the Curandera's hands represent? Why do you think so?
3. Why are plants and flowers growing throughout the Curandera's body?
4. The Curandera seems to be connected to a large figure lying underground beneath her. Who or what do you think this large figure represents?
5. There are three large hearts within the Curandera's body and head. What do these hearts represent?
6. Why is this painting filled with plants and flowers?
7. This painting is filled with diamond shaped objects. What do you think these objects represent?

Essay

Write an essay interpreting the symbolic content of this painting.

Example of structure:

1st Paragraph - The painting, "Curandera," is filled with organic and magical symbolism. (Describe the symbols you have found in the painting.)

2nd Paragraph - Explain the meaning of each symbol.

3rd Paragraph - State the importance of the symbolism in this painting.