My Antonia Environment Analysis

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In the same way that Antonia represents the prairie and its spirit, the prairie also represents Antonia. Jim's decision to abandon the prairie and small town life intertwines with his personal life as a decision to leave Antonia behind. In many ways the environment even reflects Antonia's feelings, conjuring up storms and dark clouds in her brooding. As winter falls she grows more melancholy or unavailable but can also grow more maternal as well. Most of all the warmth of summer accompanies her childhood bliss and every return her happiness makes later in life. "The Harling children and I were never happier, never felt more contented and secure, than in the weeks of spring which broke that long winter." The environment also reflects many sentiments