Days of Obligation

In a series of ten essays spanning five centuries, Richard Rodriguez examines the complex history of Mexican-Americans in California, exploring themes of race, religion, and cultural identity. The book presents a thought-provoking comparison between Mexico and the United States, highlighting how their cultural narratives have evolved over time. As the essays unfold, Rodriguez reveals an intriguing irony: the shifting roles of Mexico and the U.S., with each embodying different cultural masks.