In case there's any doubt in your mind, for the paisanos populating John Steinbeck's Tortilla Flat, religion means one thing: the Catholic Church. The poor folks pray to the Virgin Mary, to Saint Clare, and to Saint Francisco of Assisi when they're in need. The priest, Father Ramon, is an important figure in the community, too: he helps out when someone dies or needs any sort of religious service.
The importance of the Church seems to be a big part of the cultural identity of Tortilla Flat, and it's also a moral influence. Even the thieving gang of Danny's friends know that they can't rob a saint, and they respect devotion.
Questions About Religion
- How do each of the characters relate to the Church? Do they all respect it? How do they show their devotion?
- What is the relationship between economics and religion in Tortilla Flat?
- Why do the other characters consider Jesus Maria to be a saint?
- Do you think that the Pirate's dogs really saw a holy vision? Why or why not?
Chew on This
The Church is just like the characters in the novel, immoral and thieving from the poor.
The Church gives the characters strength even in difficult times.