My Antonia by Willa Cather - Book Report/Review Example

The Modernist movement saw works that reflected the concept of the futility of life, the 'nothingness' of everyday life, the absurdity of life and the like. This situation arose in the aftermath of the First World War and the Great Depression, after which life and property were destroyed extensively. It made man question religion and spirituality and made him reflect on the sheer absurdity of life. An example of such kind of literature could be, 'A Farewell to Arms' by Ernest Hemingway. 'My Antonia', however, steers clear of this concept.

Instead, the author glorifies the concept of the American Dream and speaks highly of the 'pursuit of happiness', where every individual could get the opportunity to lead a luxurious life, by working hard for oneself and earning one's mon repose! Cather highlights and glorifies the concept of independence and inter-dependence, hard-work and perseverance, asceticism and beauty, etc. This is where the 'economic' aspect of the novel is highlighted. 'My Antonia' has a contradictory theme set-up. .

The American Dream excludes the diaspora population of other countries or ethnic groups, living in America. The book exhibits this through the experiences of the Shimerda family. While it might be easy for a native American to climb through the social strata and settle in one that he aims at, the same is certainly a tough one for the non-native. While the above-mentioned adherence to the concept of the American Dream is an underlying concept, the concept of class distinction and economic aspects, are evident throughout the novel.

Firstly, the sheer contrast in the conditions of the main protagonists of the novel, Jim and Antonia, establish this concept of socio-economic inequality. While Jim belongs to an affluent family and a higher rung in the social class order, Antonia belongs to a family of Bohemians, who are not really well-off and belong to the lower rung of the social order.The social structure in Black Hawk, where Jim lives, is also one that is heavily categorized. Though he belongs to a respectable family, his rejection of the values endorsed by society and his rejection of the same, make him less desirable in the eyes of society.

The Bohemian immigrants are, obviously, stuck at the lower rung of the society. As children, Jim and Antonia enjoy the bliss in the lap of nature and its manifestations, that are common to all and sundry irrespective of class or economic status. However, as they grow up, their lives take different paths. While Jim devotes himself to studies and aims at entering the best college, Antonio must take charge of the economic requisites of her family and must take up a normal job. The manner in which man is equal in the eyes of nature, but is left to take the 'destined' path due to man-made divisions, is reflected upon.