An Analysis of Louisa May Alcott's
Little Women

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BEING NEIGHBORLY

An Analysis of Chapter 5

Tone

Warm, Friendly, And Humorous

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Relaxed - (2) Crystal-clear - (5) Calm - (2) A lot - (4) Moderate - (3)

Basically...

Jo visits the Laurence home to cheer up the lonely Laurie.

In more detail...

On a snowy afternoon, Jo decides to venture outdoors for exercise despite her sister Meg's advice to stay warm by the fire. After sweeping a path in the snow for her sister Beth and the 'invalid dolls,' Jo notices Laurie, Mr. Laurence's grandson, looking out his window with a wistful expression. Struck by the notion he seems lonely, Jo engages in playful snowballing to attract his attention. Laurie, recovering from a cold and feeling isolated, welcomes Jo's spirited nature. During her visit, Jo not only brings cheer to Laurie but also meets Mr. Laurence. Despite an awkward moment, she endears herself to the stern old man by her genuineness. Laurie shows Jo the many treasures of his house, and they discover a shared love for music before Jo leaves, promising future visits between the March and Laurence households.
Characters
  • Jo March
    • About - Jo's adventurous and neighborly efforts lead her to clear snow for Beth's dolls and ultimately to engage with Laurie, whom she senses is lonely. By the end of her visit, she forges a connection with both the boy and his grandfather and secures an invitation for the March family to visit Laurie.
    • Personality Traits - Adventurous, Mischievous, Caring, Gregarious
    • Physical Characteristics - None specifically described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Meg March - Her sister, with whom she has a conversation at the beginning of the chapter.
      • Beth March - Her sister, for whom she sweeps a path in the garden.
      • Mr. Laurence - Laurie's grandfather, whom she impresses with her frankness.
      • Laurie - Neighbor and grandson of Mr. Laurence, whom Jo befriends to alleviate his loneliness.
  • Meg March
    • About - Meg advises Jo to stay inside and keep warm but is ignored by her more active younger sister. Meg returns to her own leisure, unaware of the neighborly adventure Jo is about to embark upon.
    • Personality Traits - Cautious, Homey, Passive
    • Physical Characteristics - None specifically described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - Her sister, who she advises at the start of the chapter.
  • Laurie
    • About - Laurie, while recovering from illness, feels isolated in his home until Jo breaks the monotony with her visit. His spirits are lifted by her boldness and friendly demeanor, and he takes comfort in their shared passions for music and books.
    • Personality Traits - Lonely, Sociable, Artistic
    • Physical Characteristics - Curly black hair, Big eyes, Handsome
    • Character Connections
      • Mr. Laurence - His grandfather, with whom he lives.
      • Jo March - Neighbor who visits and befriends him.
  • Mr. Laurence
    • About - The gruff but kind old gentleman is initially unapproachable, but Jo wins him over with her straightforwardness and the resemblance she bears to an old friend of Mr. Laurence. By the end of the chapter, he shows an interest in the March family and recognizes the positive effect Jo has on Laurie.
    • Personality Traits - Prideful, Caring, Stern
    • Physical Characteristics - Old, Gruff, Bushy gray eyebrows
    • Character Connections
      • Laurie - His grandson, whom he cares for but is strict with.
      • Jo March - Neighbor girl whose frankness impresses him.