Didactic, Humorous, Domestic

The March girls learn valuable lessons about the importance of work and contribution when they decide to 'rest and revel' for a week, leading to chaos at home.

The March girls decide to take a respite from their usual duties and 'enjoy' three months of vacation. Starting with a day of idleness, they quickly find that leisure without structure leads to boredom and dissatisfaction. Meg feels lonely; Jo misses her efficient, meaningful routine; Beth is disturbed by the lack of order; and Amy yearns for entertainment beyond what her domestic life can offer. Their mother, Mrs. March, allows them to test this experiment of idleness, which only confirms that a household without everyone contributing to the work is unbalanced. The girls each encounter various fiascos, such as failed kitchen endeavours by Jo, a neglected canary that dies, and an uncomfortable dinner party. By Saturday, when Mrs. March gives herself a holiday, the girls face the full impact of having no work and all play. They realize the value of their everyday tasks, and by the chapter's conclusion, pledge to assume their responsibilities with renewed appreciation.