Questions: How and why does Cisneros convert the traditional image of la virgen de Guadalupe into a sex goddess "... who makes me feel good about my sexual power, my sexual energy..." ? What purpose does her re-invention of la virgen serve for Cisneros as she reclaims her own body and grounds her newfound appreciation of sexual intimacy and sexual expression? Be specific in your answer by referring directly to Cisneros' essay (quoting, paraphrasing).

Sandra Cisneros, in her essay "Guadalupe the Sex Goddess," reinterprets the traditional image of La Virgen de Guadalupe to challenge and expand the cultural narratives surrounding female sexuality and empowerment. Traditionally, La Virgen de Guadalupe is revered as a symbol of purity, motherhood, and spiritual devotion within Mexican and Mexican-American communities. However, Cisneros transforms this image to embrace a more inclusive and empowering representation of female sexuality.

Cisneros' re-invention of La Virgen serves several purposes:

1. Empowerment and Reclamation: By transforming La Virgen into a sex goddess, Cisneros reclaims her own body and sexual identity. She challenges the dichotomy of the virgin/whore complex that often restricts women's sexual expression. In her essay, Cisneros writes about how this new interpretation of La Virgen "makes me feel good about my sexual power, my sexual energy," suggesting that this reimagined figure allows her to embrace her sexuality without shame or guilt.

2. Cultural Critique: Cisneros critiques the traditional cultural expectations that confine women to roles of chastity and submission. By presenting La Virgen as a figure who embodies sexual power, she questions the societal norms that limit women's autonomy over their bodies and desires. This reimagining serves as a form of resistance against patriarchal structures that have historically oppressed women's sexual expression.

3. Personal and Collective Liberation: Cisneros' re-invention of La Virgen is not only a personal act of liberation but also a collective one. It encourages other women to explore and embrace their sexuality as a natural and empowering aspect of their identity. By sharing her own journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Cisneros invites others to do the same, fostering a sense of community and solidarity among women.

In summary, Cisneros' transformation of La Virgen de Guadalupe into a sex goddess serves as a powerful tool for challenging traditional gender roles, reclaiming female sexuality, and promoting a more inclusive and empowering narrative for women. Through this reimagining, Cisneros not only reclaims her own body but also inspires others to embrace their sexual identities with confidence and pride.