Final answer:
The question's context doesn't provide a clear reference to what Maya compared justifying translations to, but themes of historical justification, societal norms, and personal integrity are present.
Step-by-step explanation:
The story Maya may have compared justifying translations to is unclear from the given context. However, the excerpts suggest themes of remorse, justification of actions, and societal norms, possibly referring to historical or literary sources. The quote from LibreTexts™ about the Mayans might suggest a comparison to cultural practices of the past that were considered acceptable at the time. The second LibreTexts™ quote involving Nora and Mrs. Linde seems to be from Henrik Ibsen's play 'A Doll's House', which deals with societal expectations and personal integrity. Both references could serve to highlight the complexity of judging actions within their historical or situational context. Additionally, the mention of a painting could symbolize a personal or creative decision subjected to scrutiny.