In the Time of Butterflies author, Julia Alvarez, uses diction to help capture the mood/atmosphere of the book. Her brilliant choice of words add emphasis to the story and reminds a reader of the Dominican setting of the novel. A particular Spanish word constantly used throughout the novel as a nickname for Trujillo is "Jefe," translating to "the boss" in English. Not only does this remind one of the Hispanic roots of the novel, but it also hints that Trujillo is the man in charge of the chaotic, aggressive political system that spins out of control and eventually leads the Mirabal sisters to rebel against the government. The nickname, used in a negative manner, shows the reader that Trujillo is the monster and main source behind all of the uproar and violence in the Dominican Republic, proving his fault and evilness as a ruler.
Alvarez does a fantastic job of capturing the feelings and raw emotions the girls have throughout the novel. From Minerva's determination to make a difference in the political system and study law to Patria's sorrow and depression following the loss of her child, Alvarez is able to give the reader an inside peek to the Mirabal sisters' lives and allow one to empathize with their hardships all through strength of her diction. Julia Alvarez's rich, well thought out use diction captures the mood of a story, adds a high level of emotion and emphasis, and really ties the story together as a whole.
Rachel, I completely agree that Julia Alvarez uses diction in her novel to help present the mood/ atmosphere of the book. The words which are written in Spanish add culture and emphasis on a certain word or subject. Another example to go along with your comment is the names of the mother and the father. The names were "Mamá" and "Papá" which sound Spanish. The Spanish culture was for the woman to stay home, to take care of the house and children, and to listen to the man of the house. The man of the house was supposed to go out into the world and earn money. With this in mind, the Mirabal sisters joining the rebellion adds a very bold and daring mood/ atmosphere.
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