How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Take me instead, please." Patria knelt by the door, pleading with Captain Peña. "I beg you for the love of God." (3.9.249)
Patria begs Captain Peña to bargain with her, offering up herself as a sacrifice in place of her sister Mate. Her words, "for the love of God" call to mind the Christian idea of sacrifice in Jesus Christ's death, which was meant to take the place of all sinners' deaths.
Quote #8
I don't know how it happened that my cross became bearable. We have a saying around here, the humpback never gets tired carrying his burden on his back. All at once, I lost my home, my husband, my son, my peace of mind. But after a couple of weeks living at Mamá's, I got used to the sorrows heaped upon my heart. (3.10.1)
That Christian imagery we mentioned in the previous quote is even clearer here. Patria talks about "her cross," which is a metaphor for her burdens, the loss of her home and family. Just as Jesus had to carry the cross he would be executed on, Patria must carry the sorrows of her life with bravery.
Quote #9
Hear my cry, Jefe. Release my sisters and their husbands and mine. But most especially, I beg you, oh Jefe, give me back my son.
Take me instead, I'll be your sacrificial lamb. (3.10.30-31)
When her prayers don't work, Patria begins dealing with Trujillo himself, praying to his portrait and calling him by his nickname, Jefe (Chief). She knows that she can't just beg, and must offer him something in exchange. Her ultimate sacrifice is to offer herself in exchange for her family's lives.