Final answer:
In the novel 'The House on Mango Street', names are important in reflecting one's identity. Esperanza and her family have a poor socioeconomic status. Esperanza is the narrator because of her writing skills and unique perspective, and the women of Mango Street are portrayed with complexity and reflect different experiences and themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
- In the novel The House on Mango Street, the importance of a name is explored as a symbol of one's identity. The names of the characters in the story reflect their heritage, culture, and personal experiences. For example, Esperanza's name represents her hope for a better future. Additionally, the names of the women on Mango Street reflect their roles and struggles within their community.
- Esperanza's socioeconomic status is portrayed as poor, as she and her family live in a ghetto neighborhood. This is evident through the descriptions of their living conditions and their limited financial resources.
- Esperanza, the protagonist of the story, is characterized as unconfident and pessimistic. Throughout the novel, she struggles with her self-image and her place in society. However, as the story progresses, Esperanza also exhibits moments of resilience, determination, and a growing sense of self-awareness.
- The author chose Esperanza to be the narrator because she is a writer and a keen observer. Through Esperanza's perspective, readers are able to see the development of her writing skills and her growth as a storyteller. Furthermore, Esperanza's narration allows the author to present the experiences and perspectives of a young Latina girl, giving voice to an often underrepresented group.
- The women of Mango Street are portrayed in different ways throughout the novel. Some women, like Esperanza's mother, are shown as strong and resilient. Others, like Sally, face challenges and abuse. The women's experiences reflect the complex realities of being a woman in a marginalized community, and their stories highlight themes of empowerment, resilience, and the search for identity.