Irony of racism
Josh's mum is incredibly intolerant and judgmental regarding the residents of Sagrado. She depicts them as being uncultured, even calling them "tacky". However, while many of the residents make honest livings, Josh's mum spends most of her time drinking sherry in the cellar.
The rector's daughter
As Marcia is the daughter of the rector, we might expect her to be well behaved and serious. However, out of all the characters she is perhaps the most rebellious. She does this on purpose in order to anger her father, and often invites Josh to get involved with her defiant behavior.
Irony of Jimbob Buel
We might expect that seeing a familiar face would make Josh's mum feel better, and feel more at home. However, Jimbob's arrival actually make Josh's mum feel worse, as he reminds her of home, and the life she has left behind.
