Summary Of In The Time Of The Butterflies By Julia Alvarez

In the Time of the Butterflies, written by Julia Alvarez follows the lives of the 4 Mirabal sisters: Minerva, Mate, Patria, and Dede in their efforts against the oppressive rule of Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic. All 4 sisters have varying values and identities that dictate the way they respond to adversity and develop throughout the novel. Patria, the eldest and most religious sister, has a strong connection to her faith, while simultaneously trying to figure out its connection with her internal and external struggles. Throughout the novel, Alvarez shows how Patria's identity, namely her commitment to religion and driven, family oriented nature become a source of stability during adversity, showcasing the connection between faith

Thus she begins to feel compassion towards her community, who had also experienced loss, but as a result of Trujillo’s regime. In this way, her miscarriage challenged Patria’s previous teachings of faith, forcing her to think more deeply about the extent to which she related to it. This quote can be seen as a turning point in Patria’s relationship with her religion and willingness to join the revolution, and demonstrates how one’s values can change as they navigate internal and external conflicts. Similarly, Alvarez shows how Patria utilizes her faith as a form of empowerment throughout the novel to find comfort during uncertain moments. During the last day of a visit to a religious retreat, Patria witnesses an innocent boy being killed by Trujillo’s guards. This sight is extremely devastating for Patria as a mother, and she voices her discontent with the event, saying, “I am not going to sit back and watch my babies die, Lord, even if that’s what you in your great wisdom decide,” (Alvarez 162). This death resurfaces Patria’s old memories of her miscarriage, and furthers her doubts about religion and Trujillo’s unjust ways of enforcing

I beg you for the love of God,” (Alvarez 195). Patria’s use of the phrases “please” and “I beg you” reflect her desperation and sense of powerlessness under the control of the regime, sacrificing herself to spare her sister. This desperation shows the emotional toll her efforts have taken on her and just how severe her circumstances are. Also, her plea “for the love of God” brings a religious aspect to the quote, highlighting the desperation of the moment. She includes God in her pleas for mercy or possibly for God to intervene, showing that she considers her beliefs even during adversities. All in all, Patria displays her evolving journey with her faith throughout the book, challenged by both internal and external conflicts. Throughout Julia Alvarez’s novel In the Time of the Butterflies, Alvarez showcases Patria’s connection to religion and how her committed, family-oriented nature serves as a source of resilience during adversity, showcasing the connection between faith and personal values. Ultimately, Patria’s character invites readers to reflect on the power of empathy and growth during challenges, and encourages deeper thinking regarding previous values and