Candelaria Character Analysis

Candelaria, Rigoberta’s friend and fellow maid in Guatemala City, was outspoken and strong-willed. She introduced Rigoberta to the notion that, instead of enduring their mistress’s condescending, racist comments in silence, they could resist in a variety of ways. For example, they could talk back or refuse to do certain tasks. Candelaria had the advantage of speaking Spanish, which she bravely utilized as a means of defending Rigoberta and herself. When Rigoberta’s father asked his daughter for money to return to their village after a visit in the capital, Candelaria intervened, forcing the mistress to pay Rigoberta. Her solidarity and generosity toward her coworker played an important role in introducing Rigoberta to the idea that, despite their vulnerable position as servants, they could challenge authority figures by uniting and defending their dignity. This taught Rigoberta that vulnerable workers could achieve power when they joined forces, which influenced her belief in the value of collective organization in the face of government oppression.