Discussion Questions for Little Women 1/22

Hey everyone, below are Kristen and my discussion questions for Thursday's section.

Discussion Questions:
1. What were your initial reactions to Part I of this book and why?
2. Why do you think Professor Hass had us read this text this week? (Taking into consideration the theme of the week: "Little Women and Less Virtuous Men Define an Industrial Nation")
3. This book addresses the issue of gender roles and what is considered socially proper for young men and women during this time. Therefore, let's make a list of adjectives that would describe a traditional woman and a traditional man in 19th Century New England.
4. Why do you think Alcott uses two major characters in the book, Jo and Laurie, that challenge these traditional ideas? What is general society's perception of Jo? of Laurie?
5. Since Little Women is often referred to as a guide book on how a young lady should
behave, what are some qualities that Alcott would consider ladylike and acceptable in society based on the novel? Cite specific examples?
6. Why do you think Alcott decided to make the four sisters adolescents and not four adult women? What is the benefit of having the girls be in the age bracket that they are? Consider the lessons learned so far in the novel and the transformations made by each of the girls.
7. What is the significance of showing the girls go through the process of learning a lesson?
8. Why do you think Alcott used that specific word choice for her title, "Little Women?"
9. What do you think is important about Beth's character-- is there a religious allusion?
10. Which of the four sisters would fit best in society today and why?
11. Why is this an American classic?