Little Women · Chapter
Epigraph explained
The epigraph, adapted from John Bunyan, introduces the book as a 'little Book' meant to inspire readers—especially young women—to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, valuing the world to come and following the example of Mercy, who begins her
What happens
The epigraph, adapted from John Bunyan, introduces the book as a 'little Book' meant to inspire readers—especially young women—to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, valuing the world to come and following the example of Mercy, who begins her journey early.
Themes in this chapter
Moral and Spiritual Growth
The epigraph frames the book as a guide for spiritual pilgrimage, urging readers to follow Mercy's example of early devotion and wisdom.
Key passages
“Go then, my little Book, and show to all That entertain and bid thee welcome shall, What thou dost keep close shut up in thy breast; And wish what thou dost show them may be blest To them for good, may make them choose to be Pilgrims better, by far, than thee or me.”
Go forth, little book, and reveal to those who welcome you the truths you hold within, hoping that what you share will bless them and inspire them to become better pilgrims than even you or I.
The author sends the book out as a humble guide, wishing it to lead readers toward moral and spiritual improvement.
“Tell them of Mercy; she is one Who early hath her pilgrimage begun. Yea, let young damsels learn of her to prize The world which is to come, and so be wise; For little tripping maids may follow God Along the ways which saintly feet have trod.”
Speak of Mercy, who started her spiritual journey young, so that girls may learn from her to value the afterlife and grow wise, for even the youngest can walk the path of saints.
Mercy is held up as a model for young women, encouraging them to begin their own spiritual journeys early.