Little Women · Chapter
Under the Umbrella explained
Jo March and Professor Bhaer navigate their growing romantic feelings through a series of walks and errands in the rain.
What happens
Jo March and Professor Bhaer navigate their growing romantic feelings through a series of walks and errands in the rain. Despite Jo's initial resistance and the Professor's insecurities about his poverty and age, they confess their love under an umbrella, agreeing to wait and work separately before building a life together.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The chapter centers on the romantic confession between Jo and Professor Bhaer, highlighting love's triumph over practical concerns like poverty and distance.
Ambition and Work
Both Jo and the Professor discuss their respective duties and work, agreeing to pursue their goals while waiting for marriage.
Gender Roles and Independence
Jo's internal conflict between her declared independence and her growing love reflects the tension between traditional feminine roles and personal autonomy.
Characters to notice
- Jo March
Struggles with her feelings for Professor Bhaer, tries to conceal her emotions, and ultimately accepts his love, vowing to share the burdens of their future together.
- Professor Bhaer
Confesses his love to Jo, expresses concern about his poverty and age, and commits to supporting his nephews before marrying.
- Marmee March
Subtly encourages Jo's relationship with the Professor by sending her on errands and inviting him to tea.
- Laurie Laurence
Mentioned as behaving with propriety regarding Jo's romance, privately exulting and planning a humorous gift for Jo.
- Meg March
Referenced as the destination for Jo's walks, with the Professor often having gifts for Meg's babies.
Key passages
“I always do take a walk toward evening, and I don't know why I should give it up, just because I often happen to meet the Professor on his way out”
Jo rationalizes her frequent walks, which conveniently coincide with the Professor's schedule.
Shows Jo's denial of her own romantic interest.
“I haf a heart full, full for her; shall I not go and say, 'If this is not too poor a thing to gif for what I shall hope to receive, take it in Gott's name'?”
The Professor decides to confess his love despite feeling he has little to offer.
Highlights his humility and earnestness.
“I may be strong-minded, but no one can say I'm out of my sphere now, for woman's special mission is supposed to be drying tears and bearing burdens.”
Jo jokes about her role as a comforter, embracing a traditional feminine duty while maintaining her strong-willed nature.
Reflects Jo's blend of independence and acceptance of love.