House on Mango Street Characters
Themes and Symbols
House on Mango Street - Plot and Setting
Author and Background
100

Who is the narrator of The House on Mango Street?

Esperanza Cordero

100

This is a recurring symbol representing Esperanza’s desire for a better life.

the house

100

The story takes place in this city.

Chicago

100

This author wrote The House on Mango Street.

Sandra Cisneros

200

Which character is Esperanza's best friend who is described as being very bold and outspoken?

lucy

200

This theme reflects the feeling of isolation and the struggle for personal identity.

growing up/coming-of-age

200

Esperanza’s family moves into the house at the beginning of the book on this street.

Mango Street

200

Sandra Cisneros was born in this country.

the United States

300

This character dreams of escaping Mango Street by marrying a wealthy man

Sally

300

The theme of this represents Esperanza’s view of the world, which is often limited by poverty.

poverty

300

Esperanza’s neighbor who plays a significant role in her coming-of-age story.

Rachel

300

Cisneros dedicates the introduction of The House on Mango Street to these individuals.

her parents

400

This character has a strong, yet difficult relationship with her mother and is very independent?

Mamacita

400

Esperanza’s dream of having a house is often a symbol of her desire for this in her life.

escape

400

Esperanza reflects on this element of her life when she starts to understand the complexities of adulthood.

sexuality

400

Cisneros used this literary technique throughout the book to convey Esperanza’s inner thoughts.

vignettes

500

This character is Esperanza’s role model and mentor, known for her strength and wisdom?

Alicia

500

This is the symbolic object Esperanza associates with the idea of her ultimate freedom.

writing

500

Esperanza writes about the introduction of Mango Street and its importance in this specific chapter.

“The House on Mango Street”

500

The House on Mango Street was first published in this year.

1984