In the novel Bless Me, Ultima, Ultima is a curandera who is considered one of the wisest people in Albuquerque by many men and women. In the time that the story takes place, women were expected to tend to all things involving the home, and Ultima challenges that idea with her distinct beliefs, self-awareness, and willingness to speak out amongst the crowd. Although the Church is threatened by her, both because of her beliefs and because of her gender, she is a key role in the community and many people find themselves seeking Ultima’s guidance in their time of need. She also plays a key role in molding Antonio’s maturing moral compass. It is made clear that Ultima is more powerful than any priest, and that claim is reinforced when she is asked to heal Lucas Luna, Antonio’s Uncle, who is on his deathbed. Ultima agrees, but she calmly insists that Antonio goes with her, despite his parents’ obvious hesitation. This situation demonstrates that Ultima has already formulated a plan, and she intends to follow through with it, and she demands respect for that plan. She has taken the initiative and refuses to back down, and she tells Antonio’s grandfather exactly what she needs in order to do her job properly upon her arrival without hesitation. …show more content…
While Ultima is unable to physically carry out what needs to be done before she dies, she is able to pass on the instructions to Antonio. Not only that, but she remains strong and full of goodwill until the end, and she teaches Antonio a valuable lesson regarding death and tells him to not bear any ill will against Tenorio. She tells him that she has accepted death, which is her last demonstration of pure strength. The message of having the strength to live, carry on, and love life was best conveyed by her because he held her in such high regards, and it was imperative that he hear it before she