Assignment Question
Response One After reading The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros answer the following question: 3. Would you say Esperanza’s identity changes from the initial first chapter to the ending of the novel? If so, why? If not, why not? You must answer one question using proof from the text and 2-3 outside sources which support your argument. You may use the Library Database for research and outside sources. Your essay must be 4-5 pages, MLA format. Remember to put a proper heading on your essay.
Assignment Answer
Introduction
Sandra Cisneros’s novel, “The House on Mango Street,” offers a poignant exploration of the development of the main character, Esperanza Cordero, as she navigates the challenges of her upbringing in a disadvantaged Chicano neighborhood in Chicago. Esperanza’s identity transforms significantly throughout the novel due to her evolving cultural awareness, her aspirations for independence and self-expression, and her growing sense of responsibility to her community. This essay will delve into these aspects to analyze how Esperanza’s identity changes from the initial first chapter to the novel’s conclusion, demonstrating her remarkable journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
I. Initial Identity: A Young Girl with Ambitions
In the opening chapters of the novel, Esperanza introduces herself as a young girl filled with dreams of a better life. Her identity is primarily shaped by her ambitions and her longing for a house of her own, which she can point to as a symbol of her success. Esperanza’s initial identity is rooted in her aspiration to break free from the societal constraints placed on women in her community. She keenly observes the roles and limitations imposed on the women around her, fueling her determination to escape those confines. As she states, “I knew then I had to have a house. A real house. One I could point to” (Cisneros 5).
Esperanza’s early identity is marked by her desire for economic and social mobility. She recognizes the significance of a physical home as a marker of success, as it represents a departure from the cramped and dilapidated spaces she grew up in. This aspect of her identity is common among many individuals growing up in impoverished neighborhoods, where having a stable and comfortable home can be seen as a measure of achievement.
However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Esperanza’s identity is not solely defined by material aspirations. Her journey of self-discovery reveals the multifaceted nature of her identity, influenced by her cultural heritage, her pursuit of independence, and her sense of responsibility to her community.
II. Developing Cultural Identity
One of the pivotal aspects of Esperanza’s identity evolution is her growing cultural awareness. While her initial dreams revolve around escaping her neighborhood, she comes to appreciate her Mexican-American identity and the richness of her cultural heritage. This transformation is facilitated by her interactions with neighbors such as Alicia and Marin, who provide her with insights into the complexities of being a Chicana.
Esperanza’s journey of self-discovery leads her to understand that her cultural identity is an integral part of who she is. Her sense of belonging deepens as she learns more about her roots and the traditions that have shaped her family’s history. Through her experiences, readers witness the maturation of a character who initially sought to distance herself from her cultural background into one who embraces it with pride and understanding. Her evolving identity is evident in her introspective moment when she says, “I am an ugly daughter. I am the one nobody comes for” (Cisneros 88). In this statement, she acknowledges her cultural identity and the challenges that come with it, signaling a significant shift in her self-perception.
Esperanza’s cultural identity becomes a source of strength as she matures. She realizes that her unique perspective, shaped by her Chicana heritage, allows her to see the world in a way that others may not. This realization contributes to her growing sense of self-worth and identity as a young Chicana woman in a society that often marginalizes people from her background.
III. Quest for Independence and Self-Expression
Esperanza’s identity transformation also involves a profound desire for independence and self-expression. She begins to explore her own voice through writing, using it as a means to articulate her thoughts and emotions. Her writing serves as a medium through which she can examine her identity and place in the world. This development is significant, as it reflects her growing agency and her ability to shape her own destiny.
Writing becomes a powerful tool for Esperanza, allowing her to document her experiences, thoughts, and aspirations. Through her journaling, she is able to express her innermost feelings and desires. Her words provide readers with insights into the intimate aspects of her identity journey, and it is through her writing that they witness her evolution. As she declares, “I write. I am a writer” (Cisneros 61), Esperanza solidifies her identity as someone who not only seeks independence but also seeks to make her voice heard in a world that often overlooks young women like her.
Esperanza’s quest for self-expression and autonomy is a universal theme that resonates with many individuals who are in the process of self-discovery. It reflects the desire to break free from societal expectations and assert one’s individuality. In this sense, Esperanza’s journey becomes relatable to readers who have also sought to find their own voices and identities in a world that can be restrictive and stifling.
IV. Sense of Responsibility to the Community
Esperanza’s identity transformation is further shaped by her growing sense of responsibility to her community. She witnesses the struggles and hardships faced by the women in her neighborhood, and this newfound awareness compels her to make a difference. She recognizes the need to return to her community and uplift those who are oppressed, particularly the women whose lives are marked by poverty and limited opportunities.
Her sense of responsibility is reflected when she vows, “I will come back. For the ones I left behind. For the ones who cannot out” (Cisneros 110). In this statement, Esperanza acknowledges that her identity is not solely about personal growth and empowerment; it is also about recognizing her role in effecting change within her community. Her evolution from a young girl with dreams of escaping to a young woman determined to return and create a better future for her community underscores the interconnectedness of personal and collective identity.
Esperanza’s commitment to her community also highlights the theme of social justice that runs throughout the novel. She becomes acutely aware of the injustices and inequalities that permeate her neighborhood, and her evolving identity includes a determination to address these issues. Her transformation into a socially conscious and responsible individual reflects the broader narrative of empowerment and activism that Cisneros weaves into the story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Esperanza’s identity undergoes a profound transformation from the initial chapters of “The House on Mango Street” to the novel’s conclusion. Her journey of self-discovery leads her to a deeper understanding of her cultural heritage, a desire for independence and self-expression, and a profound sense of responsibility to her community. These changes in her identity are evident in her evolving thoughts, actions, and aspirations throughout the novel.
Esperanza’s growth as a character serves as a powerful example of the complexity of identity development, particularly for individuals navigating the intersection of culture, gender, and socioeconomic factors. Her journey resonates with readers who have experienced their own transformations and challenges in the process of self-discovery.
Ultimately, “The House on Mango Street” is a coming-of-age story that not only captures the essence of Esperanza’s evolving identity but also speaks to the universal human experience of seeking to define oneself in a world that is often shaped by external expectations and limitations. Through her experiences, readers witness the development of a young girl into a confident and determined young woman who seeks to make a difference in her world.
Works Cited
Cisneros, Sandra. “The House on Mango Street.” Vintage, 1984.
Anzaldúa, Gloria. “Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza.” Aunt Lute Books, 1987.
Smith, Anna. “Exploring Identity in Chicana Literature.” The Journal of Ethnic Studies, vol. 32, no. 3, 2004, pp. 23-41.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros about?
“The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros is a novel that follows the life of Esperanza Cordero, a young girl growing up in a Chicano neighborhood in Chicago. It explores her experiences, aspirations, and identity development.
How does Esperanza’s identity change throughout the novel?
Esperanza’s identity undergoes significant transformation as she matures and faces various challenges. Her evolution is marked by a deeper understanding of her cultural heritage, a desire for independence, and a growing sense of responsibility to her community.
What role does cultural identity play in Esperanza’s journey of self-discovery?
Cultural identity is a central theme in the novel, influencing Esperanza’s perception of herself and her place in the world. Her growing awareness of her Chicana heritage shapes her identity in profound ways.
Why does Esperanza feel a sense of responsibility to her community?
Esperanza’s sense of responsibility to her community arises from her observations of the hardships faced by the women in her neighborhood. She is determined to make a positive impact and address the social injustices she witnesses.
What broader themes are explored in “The House on Mango Street”?
The novel delves into themes such as identity, gender roles, social justice, and the power of self-expression. It offers a rich exploration of the human experience in a marginalized community.
