The theme of self-definition is one often seen in “The house on Mango Street” Esperanza is a young girl trying to find her way through life despite her obstacles. You see her evolve throughout the story. In the beginning Esperanza wants to change her name and separate herself from her parents, brothers and Nenny. She wants to be her own person and make her own choices. Instead of accepting the name given to her by her parents she wants to lead her own life and believes that is a giant step in that direction. Later on she becomes more sexual and wants men to notice and admire her. This is seen in the story about the magic shoes. Esperanza wants to be “beautiful and cruel” so men want her but won’t hurt her. Esperanza then becomes friends with Sally, a beautiful girl all the boys want. After being sexually assaulted Esperanza doesn’t want men to want her anymore. She eventually realizes that changing her name and growing up sexually won’t set her apart. Instead she accepts her place and starts writing to express herself. She realizes writing will help her leave Mango Street emotionally.
~Ingrid <3
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