Literary Terms
What is theme?
The subject of a talk, a piece of writing, a person's thoughts, or an exhibition; a topic.
What is Esperanza?
Hispanic.
Who is the author of the book?
Sandra Cisneros
What is the theme of the Vignette "The House on Mango Street."
Optional answer: The theme of Home, belonging, where you should be and where you are going.
"I am tired of looking at what we can't have."
Bums in the Attic
What is symbolism?
The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
Where does Esperanza live in the story? (What City, don't just say Mango Street).
Chicago.
Where was the author born?
Chicago.
What is the theme of the Vignette, "My Name?"
Identity.
Mamacita is the big mama of the man across the street, third-floor front.
No Speak English
What is cultural stereotyping?
When all members of a group are categorized as having the same characteristics.
What does Esperanza's name mean?
Hope.
What is the author's style of writing (hint: what's the name of this Unit?)
Narrative.
What is the theme of the Vignette, "Hips?"
Growing up, maturity, the human body developing, understanding.
"I have begun my own quiet war."
Beautiful and Cruel.
What is a Bildungsroman?
Also known as a coming of age story, it is the evolution of maturity in a character.
What is the symbol for Esperanza and her family?
The skinny trees.
Who is the book dedicated too?
A Las Mujeres (To the Women).
What is the theme of the Vignette, "Chanclas?"
Family, security, confidence, understanding, acceptance, appreciation.
A boy held me once so hard, I swear, I felt the grip and weight of his arms, but it was a dream.
Sire
What is social commentary?
The critique or examination of a characteristic of society.
What is role of women shown in this novel (must provide the characters name).
Alicia: Educated
Marin: Free, Free-spirited
Sally: Young, beautiful, tamed
Minerva: Abuse, domestic violence, single mom
Esperanza: young, insecure, naïve
Rafaela: house wife, captured, wants more
What is one award the author has won?
American Book Award.
What is the theme of women throughout the novel that we have seen?
Expectations, the treatment of women, the respect, the household duties, women in various cultures... etc.
"We didn't always live on Mango Street."
The House on Mango Street