Little Men, Chapter 4 summary
Chapter 4 of 21 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Nat gains confidence through patient teaching, friendship, gardening, and paid violin playing, while Mr. Bhaer works to correct his habit of lying. When Nat denies damaging Emil’s corn, Mr. Bhaer makes him strike his teacher’s hand, and Nat’s shame and affection strengthen his efforts to tell the truth.
What happens
- Mr. Bhaer protects Nat from embarrassment over his lessons and encourages the boys to help him learn.
- Gardening improves Nat’s health, while friendship, books, and toy repairs give him useful and pleasant occupations.
- Nat earns money playing at picnics and saves toward buying a violin, with lessons and good conduct taking priority.
- Mr. Bhaer promises that Nat must punish him whenever Nat tells a lie.
- After denying damage to Emil’s corn, Nat must give Mr. Bhaer six ruler strokes and breaks down in remorse.
- The boys protect Nat’s privacy, Daisy comforts him, and he works harder to be truthful.
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In this chapter
Quick check
Why must Nat strike Mr. Bhaer’s hand with a ruler?
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