Jim Burden in My Antonia

Jim Burden is the other main character besides Antonia Shimerda in "My Antonia" by Willa Cather. Along with being a main character, he is also the perspective from which the book is written. This story takes place in Black Hawk, Nebraska and is of Jim Burden looking back at his past as an adult. Jim is described as being very romantic, caring, and bright. When we first meet Jim, his character is only ten years old. By the end of the book, we can really see how much he has matured. He is an orphan and lives on a farm with his grandparents. When the Shimerda's move in as their neighbors, Jim has no idea the effects they will have on him, especially the daughter, Antonia.  "I first heard of Antonia on what seemed to me an interminable journey across the great midland plain of North America" (Cather, 9). They had moved all the way from Bohemia and their move would have been a lot more challenging without the help of the Burdens. Jim was even the one who taught Antonia English. At first, Antonia saw herself as superior to Jim simply because she was four years older than him. But from the moment Jim saved them both from a five and a half foot snake, she considered themselves equal. The relationship and friendship between Jim Burden and Antonia Shimerda is really what makes up the majority of the book. They are both very influential on each other and love each other like siblings. Their friendship is tested in several ways and especially through separation. Jim goes on to pursue his education while Antonia is stuck at home to work and support her family. Antonia later comes to town and finds work there and their friendship is reignited. They love being able to see each other every day, but once again life's demands causes them to part ways. Towards the end of book, after Jim had become a successful lawyer, he visits Antonia and finds her to be exactly as he remembered her. Their life-long friendship was tested consistently, but still remained unshaken. I think Jim was an admirable character and I enjoyed reading the book from his perspective.

Cather, Willa. My Antonia. New York: Barns & Noble, 2003. Print.