Goodness

What does it mean to be a good man? This is a fundamental question posed by "Neighbour Rosicky" and one of its major themes. Cather depicts Anton Rosicky, who must come to terms with his own mortality during the course of the story, as a man of integrity who has found value in an ordinary life on a modest farm. Generosity, a capacity for pleasure, sympathy, and hard work comprise some significant virtues of the good man. According to the story, Rosicky is also a man who maintains a lively interest in the world around him and who can communicate his good fellowship almost wordlessly to others. His capacity to forge connections with the people around him and his ability to understand and appreciate the land constitute Rosicky's goodness.

Wealth and Poverty

Closely linked to the idea of goodness is the issue of wealth, since Cather is careful...