Antonia is a young girl who has a good future ahead of her when she grows up. After her father dies, however, she has to take care of the family. She has to learn how to do things herself and not rely on others. The reader sees how Antonia learns to survive through hard work and determination. When she is older, she goes out dancing and partying and falls in love with a worthless man who gets her pregnant and then leaves her. She has to go back home after being disowned by Mrs. Burden for having an affair with one of the hired men.

Ántonia is seen as a heroic figure due to her resilience, adaptability, and enduring spirit. Despite facing challenges like poverty, lack of education, and personal loss, she improvises happiness by embracing her circumstances and creating a fulfilling life. Her ability to maintain optimism and strength, and her success in raising a loving family, highlight her inner heroism. Ántonia's story reflects her emotional and physical strength, making her a symbol of perseverance and fulfillment.

In My Antonia, Antonia symbolizes Jim's connection to his past and the pioneer spirit of the American Midwest. She represents his idealized memories of youth, innocence, and the enduring strength of the immigrant experience. Through Antonia, Jim reflects on themes of nostalgia, resilience, and the passage of time, underscoring her profound impact on his life and identity.

Antonia's character in My Antonia is defined by her resilience, strong work ethic, and deep connection to her family and heritage. Influences shaping her include her immigrant background, the hardships she faces on the Nebraska frontier, and her relationships with the Shimerda family and Jim Burden, all of which contribute to her growth and determination.