Cico and Narcisco: Unconventional Characters

Cico and Narcisco: Unconventional Characters

Cico and Narcisco: Unconventional Characters
Cico and Narcisco are characters who do not follow their society’s traditional lifestyle. They are, in fact, a part of the “magic people,” people who use magic and herbs to heal and also believe in pagan gods. Cico’s importance in the novel lies in his role as another mentor for Antonio besides Ultima, for he helps expand on Ultima’s teachings. Narcisco is also important to the novel, since his death and actions reveal the social injustices of ignorant people. Like Ultima, Cico and Narcisco are archetypes for the “wise old man.” Both Cico and Narcisco display wisdom and contribute in their own ways to the growth of Antonio. Cico contributes to Antonio’s growth in religion by introducing the concept of the golden carp, a pagan god. On the other hand, Narcisco’s lifestyle is scorned by the townspeople who do not realize his wisdom and keen insight. When Narcisco’s murderer goes unpunished, Antonio realizes that social prejudices usually overrule justice, taking another step into the cruel world of men.  
Cico has knowledge well beyond his years and assists Antonio with his spiritual growth. For example, Cico displays deep insight when he says, “grown-ups and kids, seem to want to hurt each other – and it’s worse when they’re in a group,” (Anaya 117) specifically referring to Antonio’s gang of friends. Although Cico is the same age as Antonio, he is able to see beyond society’s fears and understands that a group of ignorant people will act irrationally. Antonio even has an epiphany, realizing that “the power of God failed where Ultima’s worked; and then a sudden illumination of beauty and understanding flashed through my mind,” (Anaya 119) when Cico shows Antonio the golden carp. By showing Antonio the golden carp, Cico helps Antonio realize the limitations of God may be countered by other religions. When Cico tells Antonio that “The garden is like Narcisco, it is drunk,”...