Iconicgraphically

A literary term, Iconicgraphically refers to the method of reading for visible representations. Reading iconicgraphically is particularly useful in stories such as "The Moths" by Helena Viramontes, in which each character is representative of the various aspects of the human struggle. Viramontes utilizes her characters iconicgraphically in order to represent many aspects of the juxtaposition of society and religion. For example, the "Apa" is an icon for Spanish Catholicism, particularly the way that Helena views the religion. Additionally, Viramontes' grandmother functions as a representative of a society in which the judgmental elements of organized religion are not present. Essentially, Viramontes' writing creates a text that holds iconicgraphic reading as a necessity.

Trans-Migration

A theme present in "The Moths," a short story by Helena Viramontes, trans-migration refers to the passing of one element to another. In the case of "The Moths," spirituality is trans-migrated from the Grandmother to the granddaughter at the time of the Abueta's death. The trans-migration is represented by the circling of the moths that Helena views leaving her grandmother's mouth upon her death. However, Helena's tears signify her acceptance of the transmigration. It is at this time that the calm spirituality possessed by the Grandmother is passed to Helena as she, herself transforms internally.

Corandera

A figure found in Helena Viramontes' short story "The Moths," a corandera is one who performs healing rituals. In "The Moths," a Corandera figure is the Abuelita who spends much time creating healing concoctions out of herbs, particularly when Helena is sick. Abuelita's Corendara talents are representative of her disconnection from Catholicism and her embracement of non-traditional spirituality. Furthermore, Abuelita's corenda abilities are representative of her ties to traditional Mexican practices and it is this link that connects her to the rest of her family. Ultimately, it is the fact that Abuelita is a Corendara that attracts Helena to her, as she is a symbol of pure love and tradition without the confinement of religion that she hates.

"foundation principles of love and duty, the pillars of domestic peace and social improvement, have been built up from the Bible"

Pilar Whitaker

Mount Holyoke Seminary

Approximately 30 years after women began entering the mainstream workforce, and on the heels of the abolitionist movement, there was an increase in women's political and social awareness.Established in 1837, Mount Holyoke University was the first institute of higher learning for predominantly upper-class women. In efforts to raise the ensuing consciousness of women, such ideals were institutionalized, resulting in curriculum based upon bettering and diversifying the experience of womanhood in 17th century America. Women at Mount Holyoke Seminary read historical literature as well as sermons and studied math. Mount Holyoke Seminary also taught disciplines that advocated for the implementation of woman teachers in lower educational systems. In addition, students at Mount Holyoke read materials on the domestic sciences in order to run more efficient households. Furthermore, women who studied at Mount Holyoke were encouraged to become writers and gain education outside of the classroom.

~Pilar Whitaker