O Pioneers ! Character Analysis

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In the novel O Pioneers!, written by Willa Cather, there is an important emphasis on the relationships that form among the pioneers of the Nebraska prairie. Two of the most important relationships established in this book are Alexandra’s relationship with Carl and Alexandra’s relationship with the Land. Both of these bonds share an overwhelming amount of similarities, like how Alexandra depends on both Carl and the Land and how there is a mutual respect between both Alexandra and the land and Alexandra and Carl. Despite these similarities, however, there is a difference in the type of relationship Alexandra shares with them both. Although she loves and cares for each one, Alexandra’s love towards Carl is more of a practical, companion type of love, while Alexandra’s love towards the land can be more lustful at times. In Alexandra’s relationship with Carl, she is quite emotionally dependent on him, especially after Emil’s death. Alexandra wants Carl to be there to comfort her during this trying time and after three months have passed with no word from Carl, she becomes exceptionally distraught over the fact that he isn’t there for her. This helps to show that although Alexandra is a highly independent woman, she has allowed herself to become somewhat dependent on Carl. This dependency is also present in …show more content…

Alexandra depends on both the Carl and the land, whether is be emotionally or out of necessity. The relationships are also similar because there is a level of mutual respect among the two parties in the relationship. However, both of the relationships differ in the type of feeling Alexandra feels towards the other. With the land there is at time a lustful attraction, while with Carl it is more of a friendly love. With these important similarities and differences, it is easy to see why these are two of the most important relationships created in the

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