7 - The cave in the Snowstorm

[John]

7. Jacinto blocks up the opening in the wall with stones from the fireplace, using sticks to wedge them in place, and covering with mud. Why? What do you think was going on?

[Sebastian]

I believe as this is a ceremonial place, the most holy things are probably concealed from intruders and probably to protect them from animals as well. But I know from native american ceremonies as well that the natural elements of the earth are of utmost importance like using the soil from the earth, the fire, water, wood from the trees, and air, so it may have a ceremonial aspect in itself.
What I found curious about that scene is rather that he guided an outsider to that place, which seemingly had still quite some importance to him. And I find it quite interesting from a perspective of interacting with different beliefs as a Christian I wonder whether this actually happened.

[Jill]

I too wonder why the Bishop was permitted to enter and observe. He has a strong sense that this is an evil place, despite his obvious (i.e. Cather's) respect for native religion/tradition. All gods/religions are not equivalent!
It seems odd that the air in the cave felt "glacial". I thought all caves were a constant temperature.