Megan Sarlo
Rebeske- 2B
"My Antonia"
In the beginning of the novel, “My Antonia” by Willa Cather one of the main characters, Antonia, father committed suicide. They have a little funeral for him. They bury him at the corner of the farm where someday the roads may cross, according to Mrs. Shimerda that one day people will run over his head.
This funeral scene makes a contribution to this work because Antonia was so close to her father and Jim was so fond of him. That this scene is what always keeps Antonia and Jim together. Even though Antonia is a few years older than Jim, he still likes her. Since Antonia’s father was so fond of Jim he allowed his daughter to go to the Burdens’ house every day to learn English because it is important for at least one family member to speak the language. Even though Antonia gets into some love trouble and other trouble Jim seems to always be there when she needs him. She is also fond of Jim because he actually decided to go to college and make something of himself. And is bragging to everyone in the town of Black Hawk that he left and made something of himself. He became a person who studies law. Jim came back and visited Antonia and then went to New York City, New York to join a law firm. The funeral scene is how Jim and Antonia connect every time that he comes back to visit.
This is how the funeral scene contributes to this work. It shows a connection of how Jim and Antonia connect and their relationship. Even though Jim liked Antonia at one point or for most of the book they were still like best friends.
