An Analysis of Louisa May Alcott's
Little Women

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UNDER THE UMBRELLA

An Analysis of Chapter 46

Tone

The Tone Is Romantic, Introspective, And Anticipatory, Shifting From Doubt And Confusion To Joy And Clarity.

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Thrilling - (4) Crystal-clear - (5) Explosive - (5) Complete - (5) Quick - (4)

Basically...

Jo and Professor Bhaer confront their feelings for each other, leading to a heartfelt proposal and acceptance beneath an umbrella amidst rain, signaling a new chapter in their lives together.

In more detail...

During their usual walks, which now happen under the pretext of chance, Jo and Professor Bhaer find themselves continually meeting. Meanwhile, Laurie and Amy are settling into conjugal bliss, planning their future together. Jo struggles with her developing feelings for Mr. Bhaer, afraid of the implications due to her past declarations of independence. The narrative follows Jo's inner turmoil as she comes to terms with the fact that Professor Bhaer is about to leave, believing this decision to be a result of her not being forthright with her feelings. The chapter culminates in a tender, candid confession from both Jo and the Professor during a rain-soaked shopping trip, where the couple acknowledges their love for each other. They agree to pursue a future together despite the practical challenges ahead.
Characters
  • Jo March
    • About - Jo confronts and acknowledges her love for Professor Bhaer, ultimately accepting his proposal in an emotional and impromptu moment.
    • Personality Traits - She is introspective, passionate, determined, and shows a resolve to maintain her independence, despite her emerging feelings.
    • Physical Characteristics - In this chapter, her appearance is dishevelled from the rain, with her clothes and bonnet mentioned in a ruined state.
    • Character Connections
      • Professor Bhaer - He becomes her fiancé by the end of the chapter.
      • Laurie - Former love interest, now a family friend and confidant.
      • Mrs. March - Her mother, who subtly encourages Jo's relationship with Mr. Bhaer.
      • Amy - Her sister, mentioned briefly in the context of setting up her future with Laurie.
  • Professor Friedrich Bhaer
    • About - Professor Bhaer reveals his affection for Jo, leading him to propose despite fears of inadequacy due to his financial position.
    • Personality Traits - He is affectionate, patient, earnest, and scholarly, with a mix of romantic idealism and pragmatic concerns.
    • Physical Characteristics - He is described through the changes on his face, and how the rain drops on his beard seemed to create rainbows.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - His love interest, to whom he proposes in this chapter.
      • Mrs. March - Jo's mother, who appreciates him and suggests inviting him home.
  • Mrs. March
    • About - She provides gentle encouragement to Jo regarding her relationship with Mr. Bhaer and is always supportive.
    • Personality Traits - She exhibits kindness and warmth, with a perceptiveness about Jo's emotional state.
    • Physical Characteristics - Her physical characteristics are not described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - Her daughter, who she subtly supports in her romantic endeavors.
      • Professor Bhaer - She seems fond of him and encourages his visits.
  • Laurie
    • About - Referenced in the chapter as settling into married life with Amy, Laurie's character represents a past love for Jo.
    • Personality Traits - His character is mentioned in passing as a respectful and dignified presence.
    • Physical Characteristics - His physical characteristics are not described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - Former love interest, now a family friend.
      • Amy - His wife and Jo's sister.
  • Amy
    • About - Briefly mentioned as having established a future with Laurie, she is planning her life with him.
    • Personality Traits - Her character is only referenced in the context of her impending blissful future.
    • Physical Characteristics - Her physical characteristics are not described in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Jo March - Her sister, whom she is contrasted with in happiness and stability.
      • Laurie - Her husband.