The House on Mango Street - Study Guide

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering key themes, symbols, and literary devices from 'The House on Mango Street'.

Louie

Represents the danger and 'stolen' nature of life on Mango Street.

Symbolism of high heels

Symbolizes growing up and the scary side of male attention.

Gil’s refusal to sell his music box

Represents inner beauty that isn't for sale.

Esperanza's desire to eat

To feel 'special' and 'important.'

Geraldo

Represents the 'anonymous' immigrant who dies and is forgotten.

Mamacita

Represents the pain of being stuck in a new country without the language.

Marin’s priorities

Waiting for a man to 'save' her and change her life.

'Those Who Don’t'

Illustrates fear of others based on race or neighborhood.

'Chancles'

Represents Esperanza’s deep shame about her 'ugly' clothes and poverty.

Ruthie

A grown woman who acts like a child; a warning of wasted potential.

Earl

A mysterious neighbor who brings different women home, representing adult secrets.

Voice and tone of 'Sire'

Mix of excitement and fear during a first crush.

Voice and tone of 'Four Skinny Trees'

Symbolizes strength; they grow despite having no 'reason' to.

Rafaela

Locked in her house by her husband, she literally dreams of freedom.

Esperanza's refusal to go out on Sundays

She stops going because seeing 'nice' houses makes her feel poor and ashamed.

'Darius and the Clouds'

Finding something holy (God) in a dirty, crowded place.

Reason for Esperanza working

To pay for her private Catholic school.

Esperanza's main desire

A house of her own to write in.

'A Smart Cookie'

Her mom’s regret about quitting school over 'shame.'

Monkey Garden

A place of childhood play that turns into a place of adult 'games.'

'Bums in the Attic'

Esperanza’s plan to help those even poorer than her.

Monkey Garden vs. Garden of Eden

Esperanza's childhood innocence ends through witnessing the reality of sexual maturity and betrayal.

Foils of Esperanza

Characters like Sally or Marin, who show the 'wrong' way to escape.

Simile

Comparison using 'like' or 'as.'

Metaphor

Direct comparison without 'like' or 'as.'

Hyperbole

Big exaggeration for effect.

Personification

Giving human traits to objects.