Day of the Dead

Question 1

What is said to happen during the Day of the Dead?

Answer 1

Spirits of loved ones return to enjoy the pleasure of food and drink that they loved on earth

Question 2

What are calaveras? Why are they smiling?

Answer 2

Smiling Skeletons; the irony of laughing at the ones alive (they are the true ones suffering)

Question 3

What are Panes de Muerto? What do they represent?

Answer 3

“Bread of the Dead”; souls of the departed

Question 4

What do the seeds on the bread represent?

Answer 4

Happiness

Question 5

What is copal?

Answer 5

Incense from tree resin (sap)

Question 6

What is Cempasuchil? What is its function?

Answer 6

It is the Flower of the Dead; scent guides spirits

Question 7

What do the candles represent and what is their function?

Answer 7

Departed souls and helps guide spirits

Question 8

What does burning incense accomplish?

Answer 8

Lets the spirits know they are ready for them

Question 9

Compare and contrast the cemetery celebration and the home celebration.

Answer 9

Home is private with family and friends, while the cemetery is public and a community party

Question 10

When is it celebrated?

Answer 10

October 31 - November 2