The Oppression Of Little Women

The first theme is Little Women is the necessity of work for balance and functioning. According to the text, “As the height of luxury, Meg put out some of her sewing, and then found time hung so heavily that she fell to snipping and spoiling her clothes in her attempts to furbish them up a la Moffat. Jo read till her eyes gave out and she was sick of books, got so fidgety that even good natured Laurie had a quarrel with her, and so reduced in spirits that she desperately wished she had gone with Aunt March.” (Alcott, 116) If the lack of work makes the March girls act in disrespectful or hurtful ways, then work is just as important for functioning as luxury. Work creates balance and purpose, and when one is deprived of work their level of functioning …show more content…
For the final piece of evidence, “ When Mr. March lost his property in trying to help an unfortunate friend, the two oldest girls begged to be allowed to do something toward their own support, at least. Believing that they could not begin too early to cultivated energy, industry, and and independence, their parents consented, and both fell to work with the hearty good will which in spite of all obstacles sure to succeed at last. (Allcott, 39) This quote is describing Jo, Meg, and their efforts to contribute to the family. Work isn’t only beneficial for one’s self, but can also can positively impact others. When Meg and Jo get a job to subsidize the rest of the March family and pull their share, their actions allow less responsibility to be placed on Mrs. …show more content…
As a final example for a theme of selfless generosity, “There are many Beths in the world, shy and quiet, sitting in corners till needed, and living for others so cheerfully that no one sees the sacrifices till the little cricket on the hearth stops chirping, and the sweet, sunshiny presence vanishes, leaving silence and shadow behind.” (Alcott, 42) This text is written from the point of view of the protagonist, Jo. She describes Beth’s means of sacrifice, which are very subtle but ever present. If we look at Beth’s character through the lense of all humankind, she is clearly the example of what we all should be. Though Beth lives a short life, she touches many with her kindness and generosity. Throughout the book, the rest of the main characters attempt to be more like Beth, Amy in particular. When Beth dies, her last wish is for Jo to take care of the rest of the family for