Little Women · Chapter
My Lord and Lady explained
Laurie and Amy, now married, discuss their plans for the future, including using their wealth to help struggling artists and the deserving poor.
What happens
Laurie and Amy, now married, discuss their plans for the future, including using their wealth to help struggling artists and the deserving poor. Laurie expresses his desire to work and prove himself, while Amy resolves to be a good wife before becoming a society hostess. They also talk about Jo's relationship with Professor Bhaer, with Laurie affirming his support and suggesting they find a way to help the Professor financially without Jo knowing.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The chapter explores the newlywed life of Amy and Laurie, emphasizing mutual respect, affection, and the importance of marrying for love rather than money.
Poverty and Wealth
Laurie and Amy discuss using their wealth to help struggling artists and the 'poor gentlefolks,' reflecting on the responsibilities of riches and the dignity of poverty.
Ambition and Work
Laurie expresses his desire to work diligently and prove himself, while Amy plans to create a home before pursuing society ambitions, showing a balance of personal and professional goals.
Characters to notice
- Amy March
Now Mrs. Laurence, Amy is settling into married life, showing matronly confidence and a desire to use her wealth to help others. She reassures Laurie of her love, independent of his money.
- Laurie Laurence
Laurie is happily married and determined to work diligently, proving to his grandfather that he is not spoiled. He discusses philanthropic plans with Amy and supports Jo's potential marriage to Professor Bhaer.
- Jo March
Jo is present, teasing Laurie and showing her usual saucy spirit. She expresses happiness for Amy and Laurie, though with a sigh that hints at her own feelings for Professor Bhaer.
- Marmee March
Mrs. March observes the young couple with satisfaction, feeling a mother's relief that Amy is happily settled. She also shows a tender moment with Amy, asking forgiveness for her maternal covetousness.
- Professor Bhaer
Mentioned as the man Laurie believes intends to marry Jo. Laurie and Amy discuss him warmly, considering him a 'capital old Professor' and planning to help him financially.
Key passages
“Rich people have no right to sit down and enjoy themselves, or let their money accumulate for others to waste. It’s not half so sensible to leave legacies when one dies as it is to use the money wisely while alive, and enjoy making one’s fellow-creatures happy with it.”
The wealthy should actively use their money to help others during their lifetime rather than simply leaving it as an inheritance.
Laurie expresses a philosophy of active philanthropy, contrasting with passive wealth accumulation.
“I’m going into business with a devotion that shall delight grandfather, and prove to him that I’m not spoilt. I need something of the sort to keep me steady. I’m tired of dawdling, and mean to work like a man.”
Laurie declares his intention to work hard in business to show his grandfather he is responsible and to find purpose for himself.
Laurie's commitment to work reflects his personal growth and desire for self-improvement.
“Women never should marry for money—”
A woman should never marry solely for financial gain.
Amy begins to state a principle about marriage, but catches herself, aware of her own past considerations of a wealthy match.