Past, Present, and Symbolism

In her novel Little Women, Louisa May Alcott draws the reader into the coming-of-age story of four young girls. So far, I found the story to be really interesting, in part because of the rhetorical devices that Alcott uses. In the first few chapters of the book, Alcott introduces readers to a game that the sisters used to play when they were younger called Pilgrim’s Progress. The goal of the game was for the sister to carry a small bundle from the basement, which was called “the City of Destruction” to the roof, which was called the “Celestial City” (10). The game represented the sisters’ progress from a low level to their ultimate destination in life. Later on, the girls realize that this journey is symbolic of their real life, as the bundles represent their mistakes and flaws and the roof represents true peace and happiness when they overcome their troubles. The symbolism is woven throughout the novel as the girls pursue their dreams in life.

As the story continues and the girls grow up, there is an increasing emphasis on the similarities between the Pilgrim’s Progress game and their lives. In fact, the struggles that the sisters face is often expressed in terms of the game. For example, after a party, Meg, the oldest, complains about “how hard it does seem to take up our packs and go on” (33). The other sisters chime in and describe their troubles and the work that they later have to do, which makes the scene a reference to the bundles that were used in the game. More indirectly, the sisters, although poor, strive to be happy in their daily lives and have fun at special occasions such as parties. So far, based on what I have read, the sisters’ determination to appreciate what they have is a recurring theme in the book. The poverty that they constantly face and need to overcome can also be symbolized by the bundles that they used to carry, and their happiness can be symbolized by the rooftop, as it is their main goal. Thus, by striving overcoming their socioeconomic situation and the stereotypes against women, the March sisters take steps closer to their own Celestial City.  

1 Comment

  1. Thank you for sharing your insights, Sharon! What in the writing style of Alcott might show signs that the book was written for children? That could be an interesting avenue to pursue … just one thought. I can’t wait to read what else you come up with.

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