"Good Wives" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In Louisa May Alcott's "Good Wives," the characters play vital roles in shaping the narrative and exploring themes of family, love, and personal growth. The story primarily revolves around the March sisters: Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy. Each sister undergoes her own journey, which contributes to the overall development of the plot. Other significant characters include Laurie Laurence, a close friend of the March sisters, and their parents, Marmee and Mr. March.

Character Descriptions

Jo March

Jo March is the central protagonist of the story, a spirited and independent young woman with a passion for writing. She is described as tomboyish, with a strong will and a desire to challenge societal norms. Jo has a distinctive appearance, with a mane of unruly, chestnut hair and a penchant for dressing in unconventional attire.

Meg March

Meg March is the eldest sister, known for her beauty and grace. She is characterized by her gentle and nurturing nature. Meg possesses a fair complexion, hazel eyes, and chestnut curls. Throughout the story, she epitomizes the traditional role of a woman in the Victorian era.

Beth March

Beth March, the third sister, is depicted as sweet-natured and selfless. She is often described as fragile and delicate, with a slight frame and pale complexion. Beth's physical appearance mirrors her gentle and introverted personality.

Amy March

Amy March, the youngest sister, is initially portrayed as vain and materialistic. However, as the story progresses, she undergoes a transformation and matures into a more thoughtful and artistic individual. Amy is described as having blonde curls and a cherubic face.

Laurie Laurence

Laurie Laurence is a close friend of the March sisters and becomes a central figure in their lives. He is characterized as handsome, charming, and affluent. Laurie is described as having a mischievous smile and a friendly demeanor.

Marmee March

Marmee March, the mother of the March sisters, plays a vital role in the family. She is portrayed as wise, compassionate, and understanding. Marmee has a serene, matronly appearance, often depicted wearing a simple bonnet and apron.

Mr. March

Mr. March, the father of the March sisters, is initially absent from their lives due to his service in the Civil War. He is characterized as a kind and principled man, deeply devoted to his family. Mr. March has a distinguished appearance, with greying hair and a gentle countenance.

Mr. Laurence

Mr. Laurence is Laurie's wealthy and benevolent grandfather. He becomes a paternal figure to the March sisters, offering them guidance and support. Mr. Laurence is described as elderly, with silver hair and a warm smile.

Aunt March

Aunt March is a wealthy relative of the March sisters. She is depicted as a stern and opinionated woman, often critical of her nieces. Aunt March has a commanding presence, dressed in fine garments and adorned with jewelry.

Character Traits

Jo March

Jo March is characterized by her rebellious spirit, intelligence, and creativity. She possesses a fierce sense of independence, often challenging societal expectations imposed on women during the Victorian era. Jo is also known for her loyalty and devotion to her family and friends.

Meg March

Meg March embodies traditional feminine virtues, such as kindness, patience, and humility. She is portrayed as a loving sister and daughter, willing to make sacrifices for her family. Meg values stability and finds contentment in her role as a wife and mother.

Beth March

Beth March is characterized by her gentleness, compassion, and selflessness. She possesses a quiet strength and a deep love for music. Beth's humility and empathy make her a beloved figure among her family and friends.

Amy March

Amy March initially exhibits a superficial and materialistic nature but evolves into a more mature and thoughtful individual. She is depicted as ambitious, artistic, and determined. Amy values refinement and elegance, often aspiring to higher social status.

Laurie Laurence

Laurie Laurence is known for his charm, playfulness, and generosity. He is fiercely loyal to the March sisters and forms a deep connection with each of them. Laurie's adventurous spirit and willingness to defy societal norms make him a captivating character.

Marmee March

Marmee March embodies the idealized image of a nurturing and wise mother. She is characterized by her unwavering love for her daughters and her ability to provide guidance and support. Marmee is a source of strength and inspiration for the March sisters.

Mr. March

Mr. March is portrayed as a principled and compassionate father figure. Despite his absence for a significant portion of the story, his letters and wisdom shape the moral compass of his daughters. Mr. March's integrity and devotion to his family make him a respected character.

Mr. Laurence

Mr. Laurence is depicted as a benevolent and kind-hearted man. He serves as a mentor and benefactor to the March sisters, offering them emotional support and guidance. Mr. Laurence's generosity and understanding make him a beloved character.

Aunt March

Aunt March is characterized by her wealth, status, and strong opinions. While initially portrayed as stern and critical, she ultimately demonstrates a softer side and reveals her love for her nieces. Aunt March's wealth and social standing provide an interesting contrast to the March sisters' more modest lifestyle.

Character Background

The March sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, are the daughters of Mr. and Marmee March. They reside in Concord, Massachusetts, during the mid-19th century. The family faces the challenges of the Civil War and the societal expectations placed upon women of the time. As the story progresses, each sister navigates her own path of personal growth, discovering love, facing loss, and finding her place in the world.

Character Arcs

Jo March

Jo March's character arc focuses on her journey towards self-discovery and balancing her dreams with societal expectations. Throughout the story, she grapples with her desire for independence and creative fulfillment. Jo's arc culminates in her realizing the importance of personal growth and embracing her unique path as a writer.

Meg March

Meg March's character arc revolves around her transition from a young girl longing for material possessions to a woman who values love, family, and contentment. She learns the importance of finding joy in simple pleasures and embracing her role as a wife and mother.

Beth March

Beth March's character arc centers on her gentle nature and her struggle with illness. Her journey revolves around finding solace in her love for music and her unwavering kindness towards others. Beth's arc ultimately leads to her untimely death, resulting in a profound impact on her sisters' lives.

Amy March

Amy March's character arc explores her growth from a self-centered and ambitious young girl to a mature and compassionate woman. She learns valuable lessons about humility, forgiveness, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Amy's arc culminates in her pursuing her passion for art and finding love.

Laurie Laurence

Laurie Laurence's character arc delves into his journey of self-discovery and navigating his feelings for the March sisters. He initially seeks companionship and friendship within the family, but ultimately realizes the complexities of love and the importance of finding his own path.

Relationships

The relationships among the characters form the core of "Good Wives" and drive the narrative forward. The bond between the March sisters is a central focus, showcasing their unwavering love and support for each other. Jo and Laurie's friendship evolves into a complicated romantic relationship, challenging societal norms and expectations. The parental figures, Marmee and Mr. March, provide guidance and emotional support to their daughters, shaping their values and choices. The connection between the March sisters and Mr. Laurence and Aunt March adds depth and complexity to the story, highlighting the contrasts between wealth and simplicity, and the dynamics within extended family relationships.

In conclusion, Louisa May Alcott's "Good Wives" presents a rich tapestry of characters who undergo personal growth, navigate societal expectations, and form profound relationships. The March sisters, along with Laurie Laurence and the parental figures, leave a lasting impact on readers as they grapple with love, loss, and the pursuit of individuality in a changing world.