Themes: Moral Growth and Selflessness

Every March sister undertakes a "pilgrimage" each year, symbolizing a journey of moral development and their transition into adulthood. This journey is initiated by a letter from their father, inspiring each sister to vow to "be better" and to fulfill her responsibilities at home. The novel depicts their growth as they encounter both personal and shared trials, learning to overcome selfish inclinations. A key theme is that genuine happiness and...

Themes: Family Approval and Domestic Role of Women

Throughout the story, the Golden Rule is mentioned, but the primary focus is on gaining family approval rather than seeking religious salvation. Amy, who initially saved a little money for herself during Christmas, wins her sisters' approval by spending it all on a gift for Marmee. The novel weaves the theme of moral self-improvement with the importance of family values and the traditional roles of women. Marmee advises her daughters to “make...

Themes: Feminist Critique and Patriarchal Influence

Marmee's viewpoint suggests that a woman's pursuit of creative self-expression is either unfulfilling or conflicts with the institution of marriage. Jo, who is lively and independent, establishes a thriving writing career until her future husband steers her away from it. Likewise, Amy, who dreams of being an artist, eventually gives up her artistic aspirations in favor of domestic duties. Many feminist critics contend that the novel seems to...

Themes: Marriage and Feminist Principles

Another perspective on criticism argues that marriage can be compatible with feminist ideals. Marmee advises the grown-up Meg to involve her husband in household tasks, attributing her own "home happiness" with Father to these shared duties. Meg eventually realizes the "treasuries" of "mutual helpfulness." In a similar vein, Amy and her suitor Laurie, who decide to marry while rowing together, vow to "pull in the same boat." Jo's marriage also...

Themes: Community Support and Self-Fulfillment

The intertwined themes of domestic life and morality emphasize the larger concept of community support. Another connected theme is the idea of achieving personal fulfillment through love and work, instead of chasing material wealth that divides society. Marmee believes that work holds spiritual significance. She states that it is "good for health and spirits, and gives us a sense of power and independence better than money or fashion." Throughout...

Themes: Love and Philanthropy

Even though Amy marries a wealthy man, her marriage is based on love. Her husband appreciates her grace during times of hardship and gives up laziness to pursue work and philanthropy. The couple concludes, "Rich people have no right to sit down and enjoy themselves," and they shouldn't let their wealth pile up for others to squander. Amy and her husband decide to fund Jo's boarding school project, recognizing that this kind of outreach will...

Themes: Gender Roles

Little Women defied the conventional expectations of women in 19th-century America. Marmee advises her daughters not to feel obligated to marry but to pursue personal satisfaction instead. In chapter 9, she tells Meg and Jo:

My dear girls, I amambitious for you, but not for you to make a splash in the world—marry wealthy men just for their riches, or live in grand houses that lack love and warmth. . . . It is better to be content old maids than...

Themes: Adolescence and Identity

Despite growing up under the same roof, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy each develop unique identities. Their mother, Marmee, encourages them to be self-assured and to grow in wisdom and self-awareness. Adolescence is a challenging period for everyone, making the girls' struggles relatable. Throughout the novel, their core personalities remain unchanged, but as they mature, they become aware of their shortcomings and work towards self-improvement.

Meg's...

Themes: Wealth and Poverty

The March family isn't wealthy, but they aren't so impoverished that they can't help others in need. They never face the threat of hunger or losing their home, yet they are very conscious of their tight budget and the importance of being frugal. Alcott emphasizes that everyone, no matter their financial situation, has something valuable to offer the world. Marmee and Beth’s dedication to assisting the impoverished German family, the Hummels,...

Themes: The “Good Match”

While Aunt March tries to persuade Meg to marry a wealthy young man, Marmee holds a different view. Mr. Brooke joins Marmee on her visit to see her sick husband and openly shares his feelings for Meg. Both Marmee and Mr. March see him as an honorable man and a fitting partner for their daughter. However, the final choice is Meg's—if she doesn't love Mr. Brooke, her parents would never compel her to marry him. This difference in opinions about...