Voices of Resilience: Delving into the themes of Mental Health and Gender-Based Violence in The House on Mango Street”

This paper explores the interconnection between mental health and gender- based violence (GBV) through the lens of "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros. GBV is a recurring theme, which is demonstrated in various forms- physical, emotional, and sexual- impacting the mental health of both women and men within the narrative.

The novel, set in a Chicago Latino community, vividly illustrates the struggles of its protagonist, Esperanza Cordero, as she steers into a world filled with societal pressures, familial expectations, and systemic oppression.

The portrayal of Esperanza's neighbors and their experiences highlights the pervasive nature violence against women, aggravating the issues of anxiety, depression, and a sense of complexity.

These psychological effects are not isolated; it echoes through the community, creating a cycle of trauma that affects interpersonal relationships and personal identities. Esperanza's journey symbolizes a quest for autonomy and healing, challenging the status of peaceful life and seeking empowerment amid all her hardships.

By analyzing key vignettes in the novel, this paper argues that Cisneros effectively captures the complex interplay between GBV and mental health, illustrating how societal violence weakens an individual's well-being and community’s malleablity. Ultimately, "The House on Mango Street" serves as a poignant remark on the necessity of addressing these interconnected issues to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for marginalized voices. Through Esperanza's growth and resilience, the narrative advocates for healing, solidarity, and social change in the face of systemic violence

Keywords: Marginal, oppression, Gender roles, Identity formation.