31 pages • 1 hour read
Mariano AzuelaThe Underdogs: A novel of the Mexican Revolution
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1929A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
Why does Demetrio keep fighting? Why won’t he stay with his wife and child when he gets the chance?
Discuss the evolution of Luis’ character over the course of the novel.
The Spanish title of the book is Los de Abajo, which is literally translated as “those down below” or “those underneath.” The title The Underdogs was debated when the novel’s first translation was published in 1929. Do you think the English title is appropriate for the book? Why or why not? Defend your position using evidence from the book.
Compare and contrast the female characters in the novel.
Examine the role of landscape in the novel. How does it act as a symbol or metaphor?
Critics have argued that the novel reveals a pessimistic view of humanity. Do you agree with this assessment? Defend your answer with evidence from the novel.
Why does Demetrio spare Don Mónico’s life?
Why does Camilla eventually begin to fall in love with Demetrio?
Discuss the meaning of at least three of the following characters’ names in relation to the themes of the book: Palomo, Demetrio, Pintada, Camilla, Cervantes, and Güero.
Compare and contrast Demetrio’s and Luis’ reasons for joining the Revolution. Do you agree with Luis that Demetrio’s reason was petty? Support your answer with evidence from the novel.
