Essay Questions

How does Azuela develop the theme of vainness and fatality in the novel ‘The Underdogs’?

Azuela relates her literary work to the Bible where it states that all is vanity and life is futile because death is the ultimate end of every living person. For instance, the character Macias is aware of the consequences of his evils. Macias has killed numberless Mexican soldiers, and the authorities are after him. The only thing Macias is assured of is that he cannot run away from death. The authorities can easily be corrupted to let him free, but death cannot be bribed when seeking your life. Therefore, the theme of vainness and fatality is evident throughout the novel.

Why is the author depicting the character Macias as heroic?

Macias is the gang leader, and his troops are very loyal to him because they look after him before they execute any plan. During his tenure, Macias and his men kill many soldiers alongside committing other crimes. The gang looks after Macias' leadership skills. More importantly, the reader is aware that Macias is fighting the corrupted leaders who have subjected the country to poverty and suffering. According to Macias and his gang, they are fighting for equal treatment and justice. When the army finally guns down Macias, he does not regret his death because he believes it was based on the right course.

Is the loss of life satirical as depicted by the author?

Towards the end of the novel, the reader is shocked to learn that Macias and all his people die. However, the revolution is not in vain because the ultimate end of life is death. Macias and his people fought for the right course, which reminds the reader that death threats should not stop people from fighting for their rights. As much as Macias and his gang are depicted as evil people, their acts and confidence to fight the corrupt regime are humane, and that is the satire of the loss of their lives.