My Ántonia, Book 5: Cuzak’s Boys, Chapter 2 summary
Book 5: Cuzak’s Boys, Chapter 2 of 45 · 14 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Mr. Burden meets Ántonia’s husband, Cuzak, watches their affectionate family life, and hears Rudolph describe the deaths of the Cutters. Cuzak then recounts his working life and marriage, showing how Ántonia’s warmth and persistence help him accept farming despite his longing for city pleasures.
What happens
- After watching Leo play in the hayloft, Mr. Burden hears Ántonia describe her difficulty accepting Martha’s marriage.
- Cuzak and Rudolph return from Wilber with stories, messages, sweets, and presents for the family.
- Cuzak discusses the singer Maria Vasak with Mr. Burden while the household prepares supper.
- At supper, Rudolph recounts how Wick Cutter kills his wife and himself to prevent her relatives from inheriting.
- By the windmill, Cuzak describes his travels, financial setbacks, marriage, and the family’s growing ownership of land.
- Cuzak admits his early loneliness but credits Ántonia’s kindness and his boys with making farm life more enjoyable.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The question complicates his admiration for the household. Cuzak’s account shows both the cost of settling on the farm and the affection that makes it bearable.
Quick check
Why does Wick Cutter arrange for witnesses to find him alive?
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