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Little Women, Chapter 32 summary

Chapter 32 of 47 · Part 2 · 19 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 32, Jo mistakes Beth’s hidden sorrow for love of Laurie and plans to leave home, partly to give them time together. She also wants new experience and distance from Laurie’s growing affection for herself, so Mrs. March supports her plan to teach Mrs. Kirke’s children in New York.

What happens

  1. Mrs. March asks Jo to discover why Beth seems withdrawn and unhappy.
  2. Jo watches Beth respond warmly to Laurie and concludes, without confirmation, that Beth loves him.
  3. Laurie seeks Jo’s attention, but she discourages his advances and sends him away to sing.
  4. Jo comforts Beth during a night of tears, respecting her refusal to explain her sorrow.
  5. Jo proposes working for Mrs. Kirke in New York and admits that Laurie’s affection makes her uneasy.
  6. The family approves the arrangement; Jo entrusts Laurie to Beth, but his farewell challenges her attempt to escape him.

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In this chapter

JoBethLaurieMrs. March

What to notice

Jo clearly distinguishes friendship from romantic love. Her certainty helps explain both her departure and Mrs. March’s support for it.

Quick check

What work does Jo arrange to do for Mrs. Kirke?

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