Helena Viramontes, in this novel of Under the feet of Jesus, showcases the kind of tough times labor usually face for daily needs. Her main theme as work and insecurity, she explains the lifestyle of migrant workers in this novel.
Step-by-step explanation:
Petra, from the family of migrant workers along with her husband works hard in an environment that does not support their mental health, physical body and home for their children. Viramontes depiction of Petra being the only one committed completely to children shows us how one can be selfless and seek happiness in others' well being.
Religion as another major symbol in this novel, Petra is shown as the most religious in the family. She is seen praying to Jesus everyday and also at every altar for good things to happen.
Her character is shown to be superstitious too, where a reference of her drawing a circle to protect her family from scorpions is explained by a blind belief that they do not enter once a circle is drawn.
By the end of the novel, when Petra cannot stand, she questions her faith in Jesus and does not understand what can happen if she cannot work too, like others in the family.