The Frustration of Miguel: Understanding His Character in Esperanza Rising

Understanding Miguel's Character

The excerpt from Esperanza Rising provides insight into Miguel's character and his struggles to find work. When Esperanza asks Miguel if he got a job, his response reveals his frustration and discouragement. Despite his skills as a mechanic, Miguel is unable to find work in that field due to discrimination. The underlined words "It is frustrating" and "I can fix any engine, but they will only hire Mexicans to lay track and dig ditches, not as mechanics" help the reader understand that Miguel is discouraged because he cannot find work.

Question:

What do the underlined words help the reader understand about Miguel’s character?

Answer:

D. Miguel is discouraged because he can't find work.