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Questions and Answers
The four March sisters decide to buy each other Christmas presents but then decide to buy their mother, Marmee, a present instead.
The four March sisters decide to buy each other Christmas presents but then decide to buy their mother, Marmee, a present instead.
True (A)
Mr. March, the girls' father, is serving as a Union chaplain in the Civil War.
Mr. March, the girls' father, is serving as a Union chaplain in the Civil War.
True (A)
The March sisters give their breakfast to a poor family named the Hummels.
The March sisters give their breakfast to a poor family named the Hummels.
True (A)
Mr. Laurence, the girls' elderly neighbor, sends them a feast in return for their charitable act.
Mr. Laurence, the girls' elderly neighbor, sends them a feast in return for their charitable act.
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The March sisters never meet Mr. Laurence before their charitable act.
The March sisters never meet Mr. Laurence before their charitable act.
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Jo, at the New Year's party, meets Laurie, the boy who lives with Mr. Laurence, in an alcove.
Jo, at the New Year's party, meets Laurie, the boy who lives with Mr. Laurence, in an alcove.
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Jo insults a picture of Mr. Laurence in front of the man himself.
Jo insults a picture of Mr. Laurence in front of the man himself.
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Amy is caught trading limes at school and is punished by being hit by the teacher.
Amy is caught trading limes at school and is punished by being hit by the teacher.
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Amy's lunch for her art school classmates is ruined by $\frac{1}{2}$ inch of rain.
Amy's lunch for her art school classmates is ruined by $\frac{1}{2}$ inch of rain.
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Beth contracts scarlet fever after visiting the Hummels, who are a poor family.
Beth contracts scarlet fever after visiting the Hummels, who are a poor family.
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Jo's first published story had $37$ words.
Jo's first published story had $37$ words.
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Meg's husband is named $\text{Mr. Brooke}$.
Meg's husband is named $\text{Mr. Brooke}$.
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Jo meets Professor Bhaer in a coffee shop.
Jo meets Professor Bhaer in a coffee shop.
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Laurie proposes to Jo after Beth's death.
Laurie proposes to Jo after Beth's death.
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Amy and Laurie's firstborn, named Beth, is healthy.
Amy and Laurie's firstborn, named Beth, is healthy.
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Jo's novel is published in $1919$ and is promptly praised by critics.
Jo's novel is published in $1919$ and is promptly praised by critics.
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Study Notes
Little Women Summary
- Premises: Alcott's novel, prefaced by John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress, follows the March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—during a period in which their father is serving in the Civil War.
- Initial Situation: The March family lives in poverty, causing initial discussions about Christmas presents. The family prioritizes charitable giving and values over material possessions.
- Christmas and Beyond: The girls decide to buy presents for their mother (Marmee) instead of themselves. They receive books and practice charity. They experience various social interactions and events, including a New Year's party, where social dynamics and complexities are highlighted, especially regarding aspirations and potential marriage alliances.
- Character Development: Each sister undergoes personal growth and challenges. Meg learns about the superficiality of social appearances. Jo's independence and spirit are tested, particularly by Amy's actions and societal expectations. Beth's kindness and gentleness are emphasized. Amy's ambition and desire for a refined lifestyle are depicted.
- Community and Relationships: The sisters develop relationships with other characters, including Mr. Laurence, Laurie, and others, showcasing the impact of friendships and societal connections on family life.
- Family Challenges and Crisis: Mr. March's illness and the sisters' efforts to provide for him form a key narrative arc. Beth's illness and subsequent death are crucial events influencing the family dynamic.
- Marriage and Love: Meg marries Mr. Brooke. Jo experiences romantic interest from Laurie and later marries Professor Bhaer. Amy marries Laurie. These relationships are intertwined with societal expectations and personal growth.
- Personal Growth and Learning: Jo matures and refines her writing style, learning from other characters.
- Conclusion: The novel concludes with the family reunited and showing gratitude for their shared experiences, demonstrating the importance of family, love, and personal growth.
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Description
Explore the key themes and character arcs in Louisa May Alcott's classic novel 'Little Women'. This summary highlights the March sisters' experiences during the Civil War, their development in terms of personal growth, and the importance of family and charity. Dive into the social dynamics that shape their relationships and aspirations.
