What is Ultima’s role in the Mexican community, and why is she important?

Ultima is the elderly curandera, or healer, who comes to live with the Márez family at the invitation of Antonio’s mother. She learned her powers from a great healer called the Flying Man in Las Pasturas. Although Ultima is ultimately good, she is greatly feared by those who do not understand her power and is accused of being a bruja, or witch. She teaches Antonio her wisdom about life and her faith in the power of the earth and the river. She is represented by an owl that contains her spirit. Ultima represents the old culture that validates many people in the village. She brings a sense of myth to the people in a world that relies on money and commerce.