Persecution and Oppression

Where it surfaces

• A Ride in the Morning

  Don Carlos has been stripped of his lands and harassed by tax-gatherers due to his political alignment, showing the oppression faced by those out of favor with the governor.

• Captain Ramón Writes a Letter

  Ramón's plot to frame the Pulidos and hint at the Vegas' disloyalty exemplifies the oppressive use of power by the colonial authorities against perceived enemies.

• Sergeant Gonzales Meets a Friend

  Gonzales's threat to whip Fray Felipe and the soldiers' intrusion into the friar's home illustrate the oppression of those who speak truth to power.

• Don Diego Shows Interest

  Fray Felipe is persecuted by the soldiers and the legal system due to his affiliation with the missions and his outspokenness against the governor.

• The Whipping

  Fray Felipe is publicly whipped for a minor offense, and the mission system is described as being systematically robbed and persecuted.

• Orders for Arrest

  The Pulido family is persecuted for their alleged support of Zorro, highlighting the oppressive nature of the colonial regime.

• The Outrage

  The Pulidos are arrested on false charges of treason, publicly humiliated, and thrown into a common jail—a clear act of political persecution by the governor.

• Flight and Pursuit

  Fray Felipe's defiance against Gonzales's threats and his cry for an end to persecution highlight the theme of oppression by corrupt authorities.

• XXXIV: The Blood of the Pulidos

  The Pulidos are unjustly persecuted by the governor's forces, as shown by the relentless pursuit of Lolita and her willingness to die rather than submit.