Females are expected to be pure and follow the desires of males. Men have an obligation to gain authority and demonstrate machismo, when this role is fulfilled, they are seen as honorable. The actions of characters like Bayardo and the Vicario brothers, their actions are all very timely. Márquez's choice to do so may highlight the pressing obligation to males, as well as their power and authority. Once in the city, Bayardo immediately chooses Angela and decides that he would like to marry her. With a very short courtship period and virtually no consent from Angela, Bayardo asserts his dominance over her and is able to make marriage a reality. Furthermore, the act of bringing Angela home – by force – portrays Bayardo's authority; after the revelation of Angela's impurity, Bayardo simply manages to take her home. Following Bayardo's assertiveness, Márquez moves on to the machismo of Pedro and Pablo Vicario. Pedro's past experience shows that he is an authority figure who is the ultimate display of machismo. Pedro Vicario spent time in the army and this is typically seen as a highly honorable action. When Angela returns home, the brothers are tasked with restoring their family's honor; carrying out this responsibility is seen as an honorable act. During the execution of Brother Vicario's plan, they are