Marriage is Shackle: Alcott’s Sobered and Muddled View of Women in Little Women

Abstract

Little Women is a classic work of literature that has captivated readers for generations. It tells the story of four sisters who grow up during the Civil War era in America and explores their struggles with poverty, societal expectations, and their own personal desires. While the book is celebrated for its portrayal of strong female characters and their self-awareness, it also highlights the limitations and one-sidedness of women’s consciousness awakening, particularly with regard to the view of marriage. Alcott’s progressive female thoughts are evident, as she portrays women who are determined to carve out their own paths and not be solely defined by their marital status. However, at the same time, there is an underlying sentiment of traditional gender roles and the idealization of marriage, which limits the full expression of a woman’s agency. This dependence on men is further reinforced by the societal norms and beliefs surrounding marriage during that time, such as portraying it as the ultimate goal of a woman’s life.