What is the theme in The Tree of Red Stars by Tessa Bridal?

Oppression is a very strong theme in this book, and it is demonstrated to exist in several different areas of the Uruguayan culture. There is the oppression of females from the rules set by the patriarchal society, which encourages its females to gain an education but sets double standards for other aspects of the women's lives. For instance, to have sex before a woman is married is not only discouraged, it is grounds for punishment, possibly a beating. However, it is standard practice for men to have sex before marriage.