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Little Women
Trailblazers · 4th–6th
She tried to forget herself, to keep cheerful, and be satisfied with doing right, though no one saw or praised her for it. In her first effort at being very, very good, she decided to make her will, as Aunt March had done; so that if she did fall ill and die, her possessions might be justly and generously divided. It cost her a pang even to think of giving up the little treasures which in her eyes were as precious as the old lady’s jewels.
Read your copy aloud. Giving up her treasures hurts Amy. What does that tell you about her effort to do right?
Narration Retell Amy's weeks at Aunt March's in order: the chores, Esther and the jewels, the little chapel, the will, and Laurie's visit.
1. Aunt March teaches Amy the way she herself was taught sixty years ago, and Amy feels like a fly in a spider's web. Whose fault is that?Character
2. Esther hints that Amy may get the turquoise ring for good behavior, and Amy says, “Oh, I’ll be a lamb.” How does that promise sound to you?Tone
3. Amy prays for Beth alone in a little closet where no one sees, and the narrator calls her very sincere. What do you notice about why she goes there?Inference
4. Amy's will leaves Jo a plaster rabbit “because I am sorry I burnt up her story.” What does that line tell us about her?Moral reasoning
5. Amy adds a codicil that all her curls be cut off and given to her friends, though it will spoil her looks. Why do you think that is her “greatest sacrifice”?Theme
Make a Connection Tell about a time you behaved well at first for a reward, and whether it stayed that way.
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It cost her a pang even to think of giving up the little treasures
possessions might be justly and generously divided.
Amy sewed with outward meekness and inward rebellion till dusk,
outward meekness and inward rebellion
and behaved in all respects like a reprehensible old bird.
for Aunt March hoarded like a magpie.
“I, too, covet that, but not as a necklace; ah, no!
to meditate and pray, as did the good mistress whom I served before Madame.
and the old lady complacently admired the success of her training.
“Yes; ‘codicils,’ they call them.”
1. The parrot Polly is a trial to Amy. Using two pieces of evidence, explain why the narrator spends so much time on him.
2. Esther fits up a chapel for Amy and lends her a rosary. Using two pieces of evidence, explain how Esther treats Amy's faith.
3. Amy's will gives something to nearly everyone. Using two pieces of evidence, explain what the will shows about how she sees each person.