Bless Me, Ultima

Bless Me, Ultima

• Genre: Fiction; Chicano Literature; Coming-of-Age
• Originally Published: 1972
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 840L; Grades 9-12
• Structure/Length: 22 chapters; approximately 262 pages; approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story follows the protagonist Antonio Márez, a young boy growing up in New Mexico during World War II. His spiritual guide, Ultima, helps him navigate the complexities of his diverse cultural heritage and his journey toward self-discovery. The central conflict revolves around Antonio's struggles with faith, identity, and understanding the moral ambiguities of life.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Violence; death; elements of witchcraft; discussions of religion and morality; mild language

Rudolfo Anaya, Author

• Bio: Born 1937; died 2020; prominent Chicano author; known for his contributions to Chicano literature; considered the “godfather” of Chicano literature; taught English and creative writing at the University of New Mexico; recipient of the National Humanities Medal
• Other Works: Heart of Aztlan (1976); Tortuga (1979); Alburquerque (1992); Rio Grande Fall (1996)
• Awards: Premio Quinto Sol national Chicano literary award (1972)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Multiplicity Within Chicanx Identity
• Innocence Versus the Power of Understanding
• Masculine and Feminine Influences on Manhood

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Deepen understanding of how the Chicano Movement and the landscapes and folkways of the American Southwest impact Chicano literature.