Little Women · Chapter
XIX: Amy’s Will explained
Amy struggles with her exile at Aunt March's house, finding the strict rules and dull routines oppressive.
What happens
Amy struggles with her exile at Aunt March's house, finding the strict rules and dull routines oppressive. She finds solace in Laurie's visits and the friendship of Esther, the French maid. Inspired by Esther's suggestion, Amy creates a small chapel for prayer and meditation. She also writes a will, bequeathing her possessions, and learns from Laurie that Beth is seriously ill, prompting her to pray for her sister.
Themes in this chapter
Family and Sisterhood
Amy's exile makes her realize how much she is loved at home, and her concern for Beth's illness deepens her familial bonds.
Moral and Spiritual Growth
Amy creates a personal chapel for prayer and meditation, seeking comfort and spiritual solace during her sister's illness.
Coming of Age and Self-Improvement
Amy writes a will, reflecting on her possessions and mortality, and strives to be a 'lamb' to earn Aunt March's favor, showing her maturation.
Characters to notice
- Amy March
Feels deeply the hardship of her exile at Aunt March's, but tries to be docile. She creates a will and a small chapel for prayer, showing her growing maturity and concern for Beth.
- Aunt March
Tries to be kind to Amy but is strict and old-fashioned, imposing tedious rules and lessons. She hoards valuables and has a soft spot for her nephew's children.
- Laurie Laurence
Visits Amy daily, wheedles Aunt March to let her go out, and helps her with her will. He also informs Amy of Beth's illness and comforts her.
- Esther
A French maid who befriends Amy, shares stories of France, and advises her to create a chapel for prayer. She also reveals that Amy and her sisters are in Aunt March's will.
- Beth March
Mentioned as being seriously ill; she had previously expressed a wish to give away her possessions, which inspires Amy's will.
Key passages
“She felt her exile deeply, and, for the first time in her life, realized how much she was beloved and petted at home.”
Amy keenly felt the pain of being away from home, and for the first time truly understood how cherished and indulged she was by her family.
Highlights Amy's growing appreciation for her family during her time at Aunt March's.
“I wish I knew where all these pretty things would go when Aunt March dies... To you and your sisters. I know it; Madame confides in me; I witnessed her will, and it is to be so.”
Amy wonders about the fate of Aunt March's treasures, and Esther reveals that she and her sisters are the heirs.
Foreshadows the inheritance and shows Amy's curiosity about wealth.
“Is there really any danger about Beth? I'm afraid there is; but we must hope for the best, so don't cry, dear.”
Amy asks Laurie if Beth is in danger, and he confirms the seriousness of her illness while offering comfort.
Reveals the gravity of Beth's condition and Amy's emotional response.