My Antonia: Assignment

The assignment for My Antonia will incorporate two parts. The first part is the journal that is to accompany the reading of the novel. You are to have between six and seven entries for this novel. Each entry should be at least a page in length, whether typed or written. Remember: I need to be able to read it. These entries should be part summary and part analysis. Listed below are areas/devices that you should keep in mind when writing analysis for each section

The second part deals with discussion questions. You are to be ready to discuss the following questions in class. I would like to see your support written down: in other words, you need to be able to discuss the questions and support your responses with examples from the novel (if it is relevant) – write it down…..

Topics for consideration when analyzing:

- Metaphors/Similes/Examples of personification found within the section and how they are important to what is being read.

- Anecdotes and how they relate to certain themes.

- Examples of foreshadowing and why they are used

- observations made by the reader (you) about the narrator.

- the author’s use of imagery and the reason behind it.

- possible symbols

- themes throughout the novel -the role of the pioneer women in helping settle the West -the lifelong influence of childhood experiences -the power of nature to shape lives and the natural cycle of life -the importance of the immigrants in settling the West -preoccupation with the acquisition of material possessions and its negative impact

Discussion questions are on the following page   Questions For Discussion

1. How does Willa Cather’s love for the land come through in this novel? Be able to support this with specific examples.

2. Why do you think Jim and Antonia are never romantically involved?

3. Discuss the significance of the word “My” before Antonia in the title of this book.

4. Many critics believe Chapter 14, Book II is a turning point in the story and in Jim’s life. What happens in this chapter to make it significant?

5. Discuss how the land is considered a symbol of freedom for Jim, Peter, Pavel, and the other immigrants.

6. Materialism is another theme that Cather frequently deals with. Be able to discuss the preoccupation with the acquisition of material possessions and its negative impact.