Beth dies because she is too good to live, and her death fulfills her life. She has no future without her family, and she has lived a life that makes it impossible to grow old.

Little Women exemplifies liberal feminism by centering on female characters like the March sisters and their mother, highlighting their autonomy and decision-making within existing societal structures. The sisters exercise agency in their lives, particularly in marriage choices, with Jo rejecting Laurie. Jo also challenges gender norms by engaging in traditionally male activities. Marmee serves as a strong feminist role model, opposing unjust male authority, as seen when she withdraws Amy from school over corporal punishment.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott explores various conflicts, primarily focusing on the March family's struggles with poverty and societal expectations during the Civil War. The novel delves into the internal battles of the sisters as they mature, particularly Jo's desire to defy gender norms and pursue a career as a writer. Gender roles create tension, as the family's Transcendental beliefs challenge societal norms, allowing the sisters to pursue personal growth and independence. Conflicts also arise from sibling rivalries and the pressure to conform to traditional female roles.

In Little Women, Jo March defies gender norms by rejecting traditional female roles, aspiring to independence and a writing career, and refusing Laurie's marriage proposal. Her nickname, boyish haircut, and preference for books over domestic activities further highlight her rebellion. Contrastingly, Laurie is wealthy but lonely, longing for the March family's warmth. Both characters challenge stereotypes: Jo is logical and headstrong, while Laurie is sentimental and musically inclined, with gender-swapped nicknames reflecting their nonconformity.