An Analysis of Louisa May Alcott's
Little Women

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SURPRISES

An Analysis of Chapter 43

Tone

Nostalgic, Joyful, Tender, Contemplative

Basic Stats

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

Basically...

Reunions and surprises abound as Jo contemplates her life, Laurie returns with Amy as his wife, and Professor Bhaer visits, leaving Jo with a hopeful feeling.

In more detail...

In a moment of solitude, Jo reflects on her life and future as she nears twenty-five, thinking about the passage of time and her accomplishments. The quiet evening is filled with surprises as Laurie returns from Europe and reveals that he and Amy are now married. The family warmly welcomes Laurie and Amy, along with Mr. Laurence. Jo observes the changes in herself and those around her, feeling both joy at the reunions and a sense of melancholy about the changes. Professor Bhaer also unexpectedly arrives, ending the chapter with a tender moment between him and Jo, hinting at a future connection.
Characters
  • Jo March
    • About - Jo starts the chapter alone, reflecting on her life as her birthday nears. She deals with mixed emotions during the family reunions and Laurie's surprise. The chapter implies a deepening connection between her and Professor Bhaer.
    • Personality Traits - Contemplative, independent, wistful and supportive to her family and friends.
    • Physical Characteristics - Has a slightly tired, grave, and sad face at the beginning of the chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Amy March - Her younger sister, who has married Laurie.
      • Laurie Laurence - Her childhood friend, now her brother-in-law.
      • Professor Bhaer - A friend showing potential romantic interest in Jo.
      • Beth March - Her deceased sister, who remains a strong presence in her mind.
  • Laurie Laurence
    • About - Laurie returns from Europe, now married to Amy. He visits the March family and shares his news with Jo, who is surprised and accepts the changes with good humor.
    • Personality Traits - Proud, content, and mirthful, with deep fondness for Jo and Amy.
    • Physical Characteristics - No specific physical characteristics are mentioned in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Amy March - His new wife, previously his sister-in-law.
      • Jo March - His childhood friend and now sister-in-law.
  • Amy March (Mrs. Laurence)
    • About - Amy returns as Laurie's wife, receiving a warm welcome from the family. She displays a new elegance and grace as a married woman.
    • Personality Traits - Dignified, affectionate, and serene with newfound tenderness and maturity.
    • Physical Characteristics - Described as elegant and refined, with a sense of matured beauty.
    • Character Connections
      • Laurie Laurence - Her husband, previously her brother's friend.
      • Jo March - Her older sister.
  • Professor Friedrich Bhaer
    • About - The Professor makes an unexpected visit to the March household and joins the friendly gathering. His interactions with Jo hint at a blooming romantic interest.
    • Personality Traits - Kind, empathetic, intellectual, with an air of gentleness and warmth.
    • Physical Characteristics - A tall, bearded gentleman appearing lively and younger than before.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - A friend and potential romantic interest.
  • Mr. and Mrs. March
    • About - The parents of Jo and Amy are content and proud of their daughters' accomplishments. They offer a warm welcome to Mr. Bhaer.
    • Personality Traits - Loving, supportive, and they exude a sense of calm wisdom.
    • Physical Characteristics - No specific physical characteristics are described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - Their second eldest daughter.
      • Amy March - Their youngest daughter.
      • Laurie Laurence - A close family friend, considered almost like a son.
      • Professor Bhaer - A new acquaintance welcomed into their home.