Summary Mentor Archetype: Hero's journey in Bless Me, Ultima

In Rudolfo Anaya’s Bless Me, Ultima, the mentor archetype is displayed through the

author's use of magical realism in the coming-of-age novel. Through a consultative lens, Ultima

produces a robust effect on the protagonist’s journey into maturity. The protagonist, Antonio,

seeks assistance from Ultima, a traditional healer with supernatural control over nature. During a

conversation with Miss Violet about his summer break, he adds Ultima’s wisdom saying, “a

man's destiny must unfold itself like a flower”(Anaya 223). He learns to accept life and takes

what it has to offer to him as he grows up, without forcing change upon him. Magical realism

through his mentor contributes significantly to Antonio’s characterization and journey to navigate

his conflicting ideologies. The mentor archetype serves purpose to the text by highlighting

guidance and wisdom received by the protagonist. The writer’s purpose in including this

archetype is to emphasize the knowledge Antonio gains and spiritual heritage of his culture,

leading him to question his identity and moral beliefs. Ultima’s character influences Antonio’s

growth by symbolizing wisdom and providing assistance in attaining maturity, shaping the

character’s identity.