Literary Terms
What is theme?
the subject of a talk, a piece of writing, a person's thoughts, or an exhibition; a topic
Where is Esperanza from?
Puerto rico
What is the author’s name?
Sandra cisneros
What is the theme of “The House on Mango Street”?
The struggle for self-definition
“I am tired of looking at what we can’t have.”
They are very poor and done waiting for more money or happiness. Their friends are happy and wealthier than her and she is tired of looking at them and being jealous.
What is symbolism?
an artistic and poetic movement or style using symbolic images and indirect suggestion to express mystical ideas, emotions, and states of mind.
Where does Esperanza live now?
Chicago illinois
Where was the author born?
Chicago, IL
What is the theme of “My Name”?
Learn to love what is given to you
“When you leave you must remember to come back for the others. A circle, understand?”
Esperanza shouldn’t forget where she came from and she should return the favor to those who helped her in the past.
What is juxtaposition?
the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
What does Esperanza mean in Spanish?
hope
What is the author’s known style of writing?
poetic vignettes
What is the theme of “Hips”?
Not being shy and having fun
“She says she is in love, but I think she did it to escape.”
Sally was tired of being in a poor situation and wanted to be in a more wealthy place.
What is a bildungsroman?
a novel dealing with one person's formative years or spiritual education.
What is one symbol of Esperanza’s ‘deep-rooted’ culture?
Esperanza’s life somewhat represents the struggles of a traveling family. But she doesn't really represent the Mexican culture that much except the fact she is catholic.
To whom is The House on Mango Street dedicated?
Her students
What is the theme of “Marin”?
She is trying to get away.
“I have begun my own quiet war.”
Esperanza is wanting to take on more male roles due to the dislike of her female roles.
What is social commentary?
Social commentary is the act of using rhetorical means to provide commentary on issues in a society.
What is one role of women in Latino society as shown in the novel?
To be good wives and to take care of the house and children.
What is one award that the author has won?
American book award
What are the three themes repeated throughout the end of the novel?
All three themes were describing her childhood and life and how she struggles in her neighbor hood.
“They will not know I have gone away to come back. For the ones I left behind. For the ones who cannot out.”
Esperanza is encouraged to not forget past friendships.