When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.
Historical References
- Villistas (59.2-4): These were the revolutionaries who rode with Pancho Villa in his Division of the North during the war.
- Carranza (65.2): Venustiano Carranza was another revolutionary and would become the first president of Mexico after the revolution. He ended up being betrayed and assassinated.
- General Obregón (65.4): Yet another revolutionary, Alvaro Obregón also became president of Mexico, and was also assassinated.
Religious References
- "This vale of tears" (16.18): This refers to a Catholic hymn called "Salve Regina," which talks about mourning and weeping in the valley of tears. It's used to refer to the earth and the suffering humans experience here before getting to heaven.