House on Mango Street

what happens to Esperanza on her first day of work? what does this episode tell you about her family and their expectations?

house on mango street

Asked by
Last updated by Aslan
Answers 1
Add Yours

Esperanza gets job at Peter Pan Photo Finishers. While the job is simple, Esperanza struggles with her shyness throughout her first day on the job. She feels better at the end of the day, when she meets a kind "Oriental man" who tells her they can be friends and sit together at lunch. Esperanza's trusting nature betrays her however, when the man takes advantage of the innocent birthday kiss to her cheek. Esperanza gets the job in order to help pay for Catholic high school. Her parents expect their daughter to accept this responsibility at a young age. They are aware that she must lie about her age to get the job. Money is always tight in the household and children are needed and expected to contribute financially.

Source(s)

http://www.gradesaver.com/house-on-mango-street/study-guide/section3/