Little Women Bliss

In Louisa May Alcott’s novel, Little Women, some of the recurring themes include learning to appreciate what you have and that having money does not guarantee happiness-- family and love are just as important for the well being of oneself. These themes are taught to the five girls of the March family- Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy- by their thoughtful, affectionate mother. The mother’s wisdom is gradually passed down to her four daughters, teaching them the importance of love, gratefulness, and selflessness.

In the second chapter of the novel, we are introduced to Mrs. March’s kind intentions when she willingly gives up her cherished Christmas breakfast to provide for a family less fortunate. She tells the girls that there is “nothing to eat over there” and that the family is “suffering hunger and cold.” She then politely asks if they “will give them [their] breakfast as a Christmas present” (Alcott 23). Though hesitant at first, the children gladly give the poor family their meal as an act of selflessness. They realize how satisfying a simple act of kindness can be although they are gi...