The House On Mango Street Research Paper

1174 Words5 Pages

In Sandra Cisneros novel “The House on Mango Street,” the themes of self-discovery and identity are woven into the narrative, primarily guiding the protagonist, Esperanza, in her journey of personal growth and cultural understanding. Through Esperanzas experiences living in mango street, Cisneros explores how complex forming an identity and finding a sense of belonging within the context of cultural heritage and female adolescence. As Esperanza navigates the challenges of growing up in a society marked by social and economic inequality, she confronts expectations put on her as a Latina woman. Her Journey of Self Discovery reveals the influences that shape her identity, the conflicts she faces, and the profound significance of her cultural and …show more content…

Esperanza rebels against these expectations wanting more, desiring independence “They will not know I have gone away to come back. For the ones I left behind. For the ones who can't out” (Cisneros dciwydcguyh). This shows her desire to leave the neighborhood and escape, but also the acknowledgement of her sense of responsibility towards those she will leave behind. She goes against the norms of women staying home and taking over domestic duties over personal aspirations and independence. Esperanza chooses to, at the same time as acknowledging these societal norms placed upon her as a Latina woman, to assert her determination to break free from the constraints. Esperanza's journey to self discovery is marked by the understanding of what the women in her community go through, these experiences shape her own identity as a young Latina woman that wants more than what most have settled for. Esperanza uses language as a tool of self-expression, she particularly uses poetry to embrace her identity. Writing became Esperanzas way of self-expression and empowerment, it allowed her to show her unique identity and to find her voice. Through her poetic language, Esperanza reflects on her thoughts and …show more content…

Storytelling becomes the means of how Esperanza processes her experiences and understands her identity, this allows her to assert her identity and envision a future beyond mango street. Esperanza uses writing on a very personal level. Cisneros showcases this in the quote “I put it down on paper and then the ghost does not ache as much. I write it down and mango says goodbye sometimes. She does not hold me with both arms; she sets me free” (Cisneros usygxysgcx). She uses writing as her way to cope with her pain and find solace. Esperanza uses storytelling and poetry as a therapeutic tool to be able to process her emotions and experiences, ultimately leading her to the sense of liberation and freedom that she yearns for. Esperanza's dream of becoming a writer pushes her towards her journey of self-discovery, allowing her to imagine a life of independence while remaining connected to her cultural heritage. Through writing, Esperanza learns she can rise above the circumstances and create a future that aligns with not only her roots, but her true