The House On Mango Street Research Paper

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Sandra Cisneros novel “The House on Mango Street” is a coming-of-age novel, meaning that it tells the story of a character growing up and going through a series of important life-defining changes. This novella primarily tells the story of a young Latina girl named Esperanza Cordero who dreams of a better life beyond her impoverished neighborhood on Mango Street in Chicago. Esperanza struggles with her identity and her place in the world. She wants to define herself on her terms, separate from the societal expectations imposed on women in her community. While both Esperanza and the other women on Mango Street have common ties in terms of community and societal expectations, Esperanza’s unique approach to defining her identity sets her apart …show more content…

While many of the women in the neighborhood have resigned themselves to a life of limited opportunities and unfulfilled aspirations, Esperanza dares to dream big. She envisions a future where she can escape the confines of Mango Street and create a better life for herself. Her dreams give her hope and motivation, driving her to work towards her goals and strive for something more. This is visible when she states “She looked out the window her whole life, the way so many women sit their sadness on an elbow”. This quote symbolizes the idea of empowerment. While some women resign themselves to a life of sadness and unfulfilled potential, Esperanza actively engages with her surroundings and envisions a future filled with possibilities. The imagery of looking out the window suggests a desire for something beyond one's current circumstances, highlighting Esperanza's ambition and determination to seek a better life. Esperanza's imagination is another quality that distinguishes her from the other women in the community. She has a vivid and creative mind, which allows her to see beyond the limitations of her surroundings. While others may see only the dilapidated houses and poverty-stricken streets of Mango Street, Esperanza sees beauty and potential. She uses her imagination to create stories and escape from the harsh realities of everyday life. This ability to see the world through a different lens sets her apart and gives her a unique

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