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Topics for Discussion
(Beacham's Guide to Literature for Young Adults)
1. What motivates and shapes the character of each of the March girls? What are some of the lessons the girls learn from their experiences at home and away? What conflicts do they face with others and within themselves?
2. Although Father is absent for most of the novel, his presence is felt in every scene. What influence does he have on the family?
3. What does Little Women suggest about parental authority?
4. What are the sources of delight and adventure in the girls' lives?
5. Each of the sisters is able to overcome her character flaw—or "bosom enemy"—by the end of the novel. What happens to bring about these changes of character, and what new challenges does each sister face in marriage?
6. How does Alcott use John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress to develop the characters and themes of her novel?