Question
Juan Tomas tells Kino "You have defied not the pearl buyers, but the whole structure, the whole
way of life, and I am afraid for you." What does Juan tomas mean by this? How has Kino
threatened "the whole structure"? Use two pieces of text evidence from any part of the novel
that you have read so far in your answer.
Answer
Juan Tomas means that Kino's actions have challenged the entire social and economic system of their community. Kino's discovery of the pearl has upset the balance of power and disrupted the established hierarchy. This has put Kino and his family in danger, as those in power will do whatever it takes to maintain their position.
One piece of text evidence that supports this is when the doctor refuses to treat Coyotito's scorpion sting because Kino cannot pay him. This shows how the wealthy and powerful exploit the poor and vulnerable for their own gain.
Another piece of text evidence is when the pearl buyers collude to cheat Kino out of a fair price for his pearl. This demonstrates how the economic system is rigged against the poor and how those in power will do whatever it takes to maintain their wealth and status.