How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #10
The societies to which I have been exposed seemed to me largely machines for the suppression of women. Society is very important in Mexico. […] In the Spaniard's heart is a great yearning for freedom, but only his own. A great love of truth and honor in all its forms, but not in its substance. And a deep conviction that nothing can be proven except that it be made to bleed. Virgins, bulls, men. (3393)
In contrast to Don Héctor's comments about a lack of faith in the divisive impulses of European reasoning, Alfonsa here faults regressive traditions as the source of division social conflict. The novel never attempts to reconcile these opposing viewpoints, instead being content to point out the complexity of the world in which they both reside.