In "Like Water for Chocolate," Mama Elena is portrayed as a strict and critical matriarch whose primary focus is on enforcing family traditions and expectations, often to the detriment of her daughter's happiness. Her harsh demeanor shapes the lives of those around her, particularly her daughter Tita, who yearns for love and freedom but is constantly stifled by her mother's oppressive ways. Mama Elena's insistence on adhering to societal norms signifies her role as a guardian of tradition, though her criticisms overshadow any nurturing qualities she may possess.

The quote, "It seemed that Mama Elena's only virtue was finding fault," encapsulates her character by highlighting how her negativity defines her relationships. Instead of fostering support and love, Mama Elena's critical nature creates an environment of tension and repression. This dynamic not only affects Tita's emotional well-being but also reflects the broader themes of familial obligation and the struggle for personal identity within the confines of tradition.