The idealistic view of the underdogs is embodied by Luis early in the novel. His view of the underdogs extends to anyone who is downtrodden and oppressed by those in power. Many of the characters in the novel find themselves at a disadvantage. The rebels see themselves as fighting on behalf of the peasant class that is being exploited and violated by the government. By the end of the novel, however, Luis no longer cares about the plight of the underdogs. He is more interested in living in comfort and avoiding fighting.

Even though he is promoted to general and has the loyalty of his men, Demetrio is an underdog when it comes to education. While questioned by Natera, Demetrio professes a limited understanding of politics and expresses a desire to be told what to do. He is a fighter who does not understand why he fights anymore, and politicians and other officers are able to move him around like a piece on a game board.

Mexico itself functions as another type of underdog. The infrastructure of the country is in ruins by the end of the novel. The war fought by powerful men on behalf of the peasantry leaves towns in ruins and the populace starving.