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Little Women, Chapter 37 summary

Chapter 37 of 47 · Part 2 · 18 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 37, Amy reunites with Laurie in Nice and notices his low spirits, while he discovers her growing elegance and confidence. Their Christmas outing and evening ball bring them closer, especially when her cheerful resourcefulness makes him admire her character as well as her appearance.

What happens

  1. Laurie meets Amy on Christmas Day, joins her carriage, and agrees to attend the evening party.
  2. Amy notices his changed manner, collects family letters, and shares news that Beth is very ill.
  3. At Castle Hill, Laurie admires Amy’s appearance and poise, but gives her little account of his travels.
  4. Amy dresses carefully for the ball and asks Laurie to drop his artificial compliments.
  5. Annoyed by his indifference to dancing, Amy fills her card with other partners while Laurie watches her with increasing interest.
  6. Her explanation of her inexpensive clothes deepens his respect, and he devotes himself to her for the remaining evening.

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In this chapter

BethAmyLaurie

What to notice

Amy insists that her life abroad includes effort, not just entertainment. Her account of making limited resources attractive helps deepen Laurie’s respect.

Quick check

What especially deepens Laurie’s respect for Amy near the end of the ball?

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