Answer:
Identity is a complex concept that is shaped and influenced by various factors. In Erika Sanchez's novel, "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter," the protagonist Julia is a young Mexican-American woman who struggles with her identity as she navigates the expectations and norms of both her Mexican heritage and American upbringing. This essay will analyze the different factors that shape Julia's identity, including her family, culture, language, environment, and experiences.
Firstly, Julia's family plays a significant role in shaping her identity. Her parents, who are immigrants from Mexico, have very different expectations for her than she does for herself. They want her to be a perfect Mexican daughter who adheres to traditional gender roles and cultural values. However, Julia's rebellious nature and desire to pursue her own dreams often clash with her parents' expectations. For example, when her parents forbid her from attending college out of state, Julia feels torn between her loyalty to her family and her desire for independence.
Secondly, Julia's Mexican culture influences her identity. Growing up in a Mexican household, she is exposed to Mexican traditions, beliefs, and values. For instance, she celebrates Mexican holidays like Dia de los Muertos and understands the importance of family and community. However, as she becomes more Americanized, Julia finds it challenging to reconcile her Mexican identity with her American one. She feels like she is not Mexican enough for her family, but also not American enough for her peers.
Thirdly, language plays a crucial role in shaping Julia's identity. As a bilingual person, Julia feels like she is caught between two worlds. She speaks Spanish fluently but often struggles to express herself in English, which makes her feel inferior and misunderstood. She also feels pressure to speak English perfectly to fit in with her American peers, which adds to her insecurities about her identity.
Fourthly, Julia's environment and experiences shape her identity. Living in a predominantly Mexican neighborhood in Chicago exposes her to poverty, gang violence, and other social issues. Her experiences with these challenges shape her identity and worldview. Additionally, her interactions with other people, both positive and negative, shape her understanding of herself and the world around her.
In conclusion, Julia's identity is shaped by a variety of factors, including her family, culture, language, environment, and experiences. As she navigates the complexities of her identity, Julia struggles with her sense of self and tries to find a balance between her Mexican and American identities. Through her journey, she learns that her identity is not fixed but rather constantly evolving, and that it is okay to embrace all aspects of who she is.