What role does death play in The House on Mango Street?

In The House on Mango Street, death serves
as a consequence of a disadvantaged life, as a symbol for freedom, and as a catalyst for hope. 
Geraldo No Last Name dies one night in a car accident, and no one really knows Geraldo's
background so his family cannot be notified.  The incident reveals the reality of Geraldo's
life--he is a recent immigrant who is working to send money back to his family.  He lives in
small accommodations and works several jobs to get by.  His death signifies the reality of having
a disadvantaged life. 

Next, when Angel Vargas jumps out the window
and dies, no one in the neighborhood really cares because Rosa Vargas is known for not being able
to take care of her children.  Angel's suicide may be read symbolically as a release from the ill
living conditions in the Vargas home.

Finally, Esperanza sees all
the deaths around her as a sign of the depressed nature of Mango Street.  Death serves as a
catalyst for her to struggle against the barriers of Mango Street to attain a better
life.