House on Mango Street Double Entry Journal Themes: Esperanza?s view of herself slowly changes as she begins to focus on her larger community and her place within it. Esperanza has a variety of female role models in her life. Many are trapped in abusive relationships waiting for others to change their lives. Some are actively trying to change things on their own. Through these women and Esperanza?s reactions to them, Cisnero?s shows not only the hardships women face, but also explores their power to overcome them. Both Alicia and Esperanza view education and writing as a way to a better life.