1. In the video, Smithsonian Latino Virtual Museum Ofelia Esparza and Rosanna Part 1, they mention that there were home altars created and there were public altars made to honor people. Does the meaning of the altar change depending on who views the altar and how many people are involved in the creation? If so, how does the meaning change depending on the location?
2. In the article "Master Altar-Maker Ofelia Esparza: L.A.'s National Treasure", Ofelia explains that "Her mother never went into detail to explain why she placed certain items or did things a certain way because her practice of the tradition was rooted in an indigenous tradition". Why did her mother not explain the root purpose of each item? Does this indicate that the altar is open to interpretation to each individual viewer/participator?
3. In the NEA National Heritage Tribute Video to Ofelia Esparza, Ofelia speaks about the three deaths that occur in people's lifetime. The third death she notes is when that life is forgotten. How does an understanding of these three types of deaths contribute to an understanding of the purpose and meaning of altars?
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