Little Women · Chapter
Aunt March Settles the Question explained
With Mr.
What happens
With Mr. March home, the family is happy but unsettled as Meg's feelings for John Brooke grow. Aunt March visits to dissuade Meg from marrying a poor man, but Meg defends John and her love. Overhearing this, John proposes, and Meg accepts. Jo discovers them and is shocked, but the family celebrates the engagement.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
Meg chooses love over wealth, accepting John Brooke despite Aunt March's objections.
Poverty and Wealth
Aunt March argues that Meg should marry rich to help her family, but Meg values love and hard work.
Family and Sisterhood
The March family supports Meg's choice, though Jo struggles with losing her sister's attention.
Characters to notice
- Meg March
Defends John Brooke to Aunt March and accepts his proposal, showing newfound independence and love.
- Jo March
Disapproves of Meg's romance, tries to intervene, but is shocked to find them engaged.
- John Brooke
Overhears Meg's defense, proposes, and is accepted; begins planning their future.
- Aunt March
Visits to discourage Meg from marrying poor John, but her opposition only strengthens Meg's resolve.
- Marmee March
Supports Meg and John, reflecting on the year's changes.
- Laurie Laurence
Makes a melodramatic gesture outside the window, teasing Meg about John.
Key passages
“Like bees swarming after their queen, mother and daughters hovered about Mr. March the next day, neglecting everything to look at, wait upon, and listen to the new invalid, who was in a fair way to be killed by kindness.”
The March women fuss over Mr. March so much that they might overwhelm him with attention.
Describes the family's joyful reunion and doting care.
“I couldn't do better if I waited half my life! John is good and wise; he's got heaps of talent; he's willing to work, and sure to get on, he's so energetic and brave.”
Meg insists John is the best match she could ever make, praising his character and work ethic.
Meg's passionate defense of John to Aunt March.
“Jo gave a sort of gasp, as if a cold shower-bath had suddenly fallen upon her—for such an unexpected turning of the tables actually took her breath away.”
Jo is shocked to find Meg and John embracing instead of parting.
Jo's surprise at discovering the engagement.