Analysis of “The House on Mango Street” Essay Example

home and restricts her social interactions. Through these examples, Cisneros develops determined female characters who challenge societal expectations that prioritize women's physical pleasures (Herrera-Sobek & Viramontes 39). Cisneros contrasts these characters with Esperanza, who refuses to conform to these norms and believes there must be another way to find independence. Esperanza rejects the idea of using her appearance to attract men, seeing it as a weak and futile hope that only cowards embrace.

The determined protagonist chooses to leave the town and return when she is prepared to confront and free the oppressed. Through her writing skills, she is able to emotionally and physically rescue and educate numerous women from the control of male dominance (Cisneros 39). Moreover, the novel unequivocally demonstrates the prowess of language in influencing not only communication, but also the aesthetic essence of life itself. As a talented writer and poet, Cisneros skillfully intertwines prose with poetry to create a work that caters to individuals of all ages and inclinations within society. This format is comprised of a blend of straightforward and concise sentences, as well as brief chapters that contain significant amounts of information for readers (Bloom 159). For instance, when Esperanza observes the red house with its pitifully crooked walls, just three words reveal her parents' disinterest in searching further for their ideal home.

Despite the resignation of her parents, the protagonist expresses her determination to continue seeking a better life. The author, Cisneros, effectively evokes a range of emotions such as empathy, joy, and sadness through her choice of characters. This technique also effectively immerses the reader in the harsh realities of Esperanza's neighborhood. The fact that the narrator is

a young girl experiencing puberty fosters empathy for the challenges faced by her and her friends. Additionally, the use of humor serves to add a comedic element that is essential in conveying potentially monotonous or offensive ideas, such as feminism, particularly in today's society where some may question whether necessary resources have been equally allocated to both genders.

Despite the controversies it generates, what sustains the novel is Cisneros' portrayal of the impact of discrimination and oppression on certain societal groups (Nolde 7). The description of features and characters found throughout the text also adds to the enjoyable style employed by Sandra Cisneros. This allows readers to relate to the flaws and strengths of the characters, prompting them to reflect on their own role in addressing contemporary challenges. For instance, Minerva endures repeated abuse from her husband without taking action to end her suffering.

Instead of rejecting him, she continues to welcome him back each time, hoping that nature will teach him to become a good man. Cisneros criticizes the masses for waiting and hoping for miracles to solve their problems, portraying this false hope in a somber manner (Cisneros 21). Conversely, Elizabeth’s mother is a supportive and affectionate woman whose beauty pales in comparison to her compassionate heart. She stands by her husband even when she knows he is not rational. Cisneros believes that these qualities are what lead to a peaceful home and the ability to raise strong children like Esperanza.

The presence of optimism within an individual who carries the courage of the oppressed population raises questions about whether sacrificing one's dreams leads to peace or fosters dissatisfaction and regret. The individual inspires us to

reject stereotypes and pursue permanent comforts that do not harm humanity (Olivares 13). Ultimately, a piece of art's value lies in its ability to influence its audience, regardless of whether they are viewers, readers, or listeners. If an artist fails to captivate their audience with effective devices, then even the most crucial message remains insignificant. "The House on Mango Street" is a novel that defies feelings of hopelessness by reigniting unattainable dreams for readers. To achieve this impact, Cisneros had to provide solutions for the challenges faced by the Mexican-American population in her story.

The story remains relevant to our society, which is similar to Esperanza's in many ways. The purpose of literature in society is validated by the novel, as it serves as a tool for mass sensitization and a reflection of our surroundings. Additionally, it reminds readers that challenges and change are inevitable and that the cycle of their life predicaments will continue unless they embrace courage.

Works Cited

1. Bloom, Harold. Sandra Cisneros's the House on Mango Street. New York: Bloom's Literary Criticism, 2010. Internet resource.
2. Cisneros, Sandra. A House of My Own: Stories from My Life. , 2015. Internet resource.
3. Herrera-Sobek, Mari?a, and Helena M.

Viramontes.Chicana Creativity and Criticism: New Frontiers in American Literature. Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 1996.

Web. 9 June 2016.