Essay Questions

Discuss the theme of love as depicted in the novel ‘The History of Love.’

Leo and Alma start their love relationship at the tender age of 10, and it lasts for ten years. When Alma gets pregnant, she is sent by her parents to the USA. That marks the unfortunate end to Leo and Alma's romantic relationship. Even after Alma leaves, Leo continues to love her, and he looks forward to meeting her with his son again. While in the USA, Alma falls in love with her employer, giving birth to him. After many years, Leo learns that Alma and his son are dead, which drives him to depression. Consequently, Alma and Leo's love remained strong despite the unfortunate events between them.

Can it be concluded that Alma is a symbol of betrayal?

Alma goes to America when she is already pregnant for Leo, and she does not bother to tell him that she is leaving. While in America, Alma works in a factory, and she falls in love with the factory owner. She gets pregnant and gives birth to him. Despite Alma knowing that she has been in a relationship with Leo for ten years, she accepts to get into another relationship without divorcing Leo. When Leo finds Alma, at last, he urges her to escape with him, but she refuses. Therefore, the author is justified to conclude that Alma is a symbol of betrayal.

How did Alma Singer meet with Leo?

Alma Singer is a translator, and she is working on the task of translating 'The History Story of Love' to English from Spanish. Singer realizes that Alma is dead in the story and decides to learn more about her and her son, who is the mysterious person who wants the book to be translated. Unfortunately, Singer understands that Isaac is dead too. Therefore, Singer decides to leave a note inquiring about the author of 'The History of Love.' The letter lands in the hands of Leo, who is aged at this time. On realizing that the person looking for the author is called Alma Singer, Leo thinks that she is his former wife. After meeting Alma Singer, Leo is confused after realizing that she is not her former wife. Unable to contain the confusion and pressure, Leo dies after calling the name Alma three times.