Park Ridge Library Discussion Questions

MY ANTONIA By Willa Cather Why is the story told through Jim's eyes? What is the role of nature in the novel? What does each season represent? Compare and contrast Antonia with each of her parents. What did she get from each of them? How does the death of Mr. Shimerdas affect the others? What about the death of Pavel? Why is this book considered a classic? Describe Jim's Grandmother. Is Jim's home more stable just because his grandparents have money or is there more to it? Is the novel weakened by not having a traditional plot? What is the role of food in the story? Is there prejudice in the story? Think Immigrants vs pioneers and town boys vs hired girls What is Lena Lingard's role in the book? Describe the importance of friendship: the Burdens helping the Shimerdas and Jim and Antonia. Does Jim regard the past with regret or delight? There are many minor characters. Which do you find especially memorable? Cather uses all the senses. Can you think of an example of her use of each of the five senses? Why don't Jim and Antonia get married? Is Anton Cuzak a good match? What do the three happy families - the Burdens, the Hardlings and the Cuzaks - represent? Do you think this life on the prairie is accurate? Questions created by Vivian Mortensen, Head of Reader Services at the Park Ridge Public Library.