"Little Women" Discussion questions

1. What characteristics of the characters in "Little Women", more specifically the four sisters, did you notice have changed from the time frame of the novel (1861) to now? Think about everyday slogans, meals, holidays, religious influence, and types of friends the girls had. Is their world a big difference from our world today? if so, how?

2. All the sisters are different each in their own way but Jo is especially unique given her boyish qualities and fear of growing up. This notion is expressed when she says..." 'I hate to think I've got to grow up, and be Miss March, and wear long gowns, and look as prim as a China aster! It's bad enough to be a girl...I can't get over my disappointment in not being a boy; and it's worse than ever now' ..."(Alcott 5). Do you think Jo would still be afraid of growing up if she were a boy? Why or why not? You might also consider her strong family connection.

3. Elaborate on the differences between Meg and Jo. Are "young women" today more like either of these two sisters, one, or none? Give examples to your argument.

4. Analyze this phrase: "It is one of her aristocratic tastes, and quite proper, for a real lady is always known by neat boots, gloves, and handkerchief"(Alcott 25). What is the "real lady" known by today? Are some of the characteristics and expectations placed upon women in the novel still carried through to our present day society? Which ones? And why do you think these characteristics still exist?

5. One of the main themes of the book is sacrificing for the idea of a nation. How does the March household sacrifice for the greater good of the nation? Give examples

6. What does the title of the book "Little Women" say about the expectations of females in the 1860's?

7. The March women receive their first letter from their father in the novel (Ch 1, p 9-10). How has their father's words and expectations motivated them to become little women? Do you think they respect their father's wishes to grow up properly more than their mother's?

8. In chapter two Alcott describes Jo's wishes saying "No gentlemen were admitted, so Jo played male parts to her heart's content and took immense satisfaction in a pair of russetleather boots...These boots, an old foil, and a slashed doublet...were Jo's chief treasures and appeared on all occasions."(Alcott 17). How has the view upon gender roles changed from the time the book was written to now? If a young woman today had Jo's same wishes, would she be looked upon as an outcast from her female society?

9. Alcott creates a lively atmosphere in the March household whenever a letter is received by Mr. March. Read the following quote taken from chapter one in the novel and think about the excitement and anticipation of receiving a letter from a soldier today as opposed to the Civil War era. Has it changed? How?
"" 'I've got a treat for you after supper' A quick, bright smile went round like a streak of sunshine. Beth clapped her hands, regardless of the biscuit she held, and Jo tossed up her napkin, crying, 'A letter! a letter! Three cheers for Father!' "(Alcott 9).