An Analysis of Louisa May Alcott's
Little Women

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AUNT MARCH SETTLES THE QUESTION

An Analysis of Chapter 23

Tone

Whimsical, Romantic, And Heartfelt With Moments Of Tension And Resolve.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Thrilling - (4) Crystal-clear - (5) Hostile - (4) A lot - (4) Quick - (4)

Basically...

Meg accepts Mr. Brooke's proposal despite Aunt March's disapproval, and the family anticipates the changes this engagement will bring.

In more detail...

In Chapter 23, the March household is bustling with excitement over Mr. March's return, but underlying tension exists due to the unresolved courtship between Meg and Mr. Brooke. Laurie provides comedic relief with a playful pantomime outside, while inside, Meg and Jo grapple with the unspoken changes in their lives. Mr. Brooke's visit culminates in a heartfelt declaration of love to Meg, who, despite her plans, forgets her rehearsed rejection and admits her uncertainty about her feelings. Aunt March's sudden arrival and disapproval of a match without prospects pressure Meg to stand up for her love, ultimately rejecting her aunt's mercenary views. The momentous decision solidifies Meg and Mr. Brooke's commitment to each other amidst family celebrations and personal reflections on the evolving dynamics between the sisters and their futures.
Characters
  • Meg March
    • About - Meg March accepts Mr. Brooke's proposal, revealing her readiness to face a future with him regardless of financial security.
    • Personality Traits - Previously reserved and yearning for a comfortable life, she reveals a new daring and assertiveness when defending her choice to love Mr. Brooke.
    • Character Connections
      • Mr. Brooke - Meg accepts Mr. Brooke's proposal, signifying the beginning of their promised life together.
      • Aunt March - Meg defies Aunt March's disapproval of her engagement to Mr. Brooke, claiming her independence in matters of the heart.
      • Jo March - Meg's sister who initially teases Meg about Mr. Brooke but supports her after seeing Meg's resolve.
      • Mr. and Mrs. March - Meg's parents, who observe the unfolding events of Meg's engagement with anxious affection.
  • Jo March
    • About - Jo struggles with the realization that her sister Meg's engagement to Mr. Brooke will change their close relationship forever.
    • Personality Traits - Witty and blunt, Jo experiences a surge of possessiveness and concern for the future, due to her deep love for her sister and disdain for change.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Jo's elder sister, whose engagement Jo reluctantly begins to accept.
      • Mr. Brooke - Jo's friend, who is now engaged to her sister, causing her feelings of loss.
      • Laurie - Jo's best friend and confidant, who tries to console her.
  • Mr. Brooke
    • About - Mr. Brooke successfully proposes to Meg, overcoming initial reluctance and familial opposition.
    • Personality Traits - Earnest and persistent, Mr. Brooke exhibits a combination of resolve and tenderness, ultimately winning Meg's heart.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Mr. Brooke's love interest, to whom he becomes engaged.
      • Jo March - Sister of his fiancée, who he tries to reassure about the engagement.
      • Laurie - Mr. Brooke's former pupil, who now becomes a family connection through Meg.
      • Mr. and Mrs. March - Future in-laws who have to adapt to the idea of Meg's engagement.
  • Aunt March
    • About - Aunt March's disapproval of Mr. Brooke's proposal to Meg creates conflict, ultimately serving to strengthen Meg's resolve.
    • Personality Traits - Opinionated and domineering, she upholds traditional views on marriage and wealth, casting a disapproving eye on Meg's choice.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Her niece, whose engagement she strongly disapproves of.
      • Mr. Brooke - The man she deems an unsuitable match for her niece.
  • Laurie
    • About - Laurie lightens the mood with his antics and shows support for Meg's engagement to Mr. Brooke.
    • Personality Traits - Cheerful and mischievous, with a touch of romanticism, Laurie supports the union and offers consolation to Jo.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Friend and neighbor, whose engagement he celebrates.
      • Jo March - Close friend and confidant, to whom he offers support during this change.
      • Mr. Brooke - Laurie acknowledges Mr. Brooke's determination, predicting his eventual success in love.
  • Mrs. March
    • About - Mrs. March contemplates the changes brought by Meg's engagement and stands by as a supportive figure.
    • Personality Traits - Warm and understanding, she gracefully accepts the evolving family dynamics, balancing the emotions of her daughters.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Mrs. March's eldest daughter, whose decision to marry she supports.
      • Mr. Brooke - Approves of him as a future son-in-law.