A Critical Analysis of the Representation of Choice Feminism in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women

Authors

  • Salma Haque International Islamic University Chittagong, Bangladesh
  • Fima Mahjabin International Islamic University Chittagong, Bangladesh

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53103/cjlls.v5i2.201

Abstract

Little Women by American novelist Louisa May Alcott is a well-known novel in American literature that deals with feminist issues. This text analyses choice feminism through the four sisters Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Qualitative research shows how these four sisters make decisions, set goals, and make sacrifices. The study examines the attempts of the characters to negotiate gender norms, set personal goals, and make decisions as per their choices. This analysis emphasizes the elements that empower choice feminism, where the four sisters want to be autonomous, with the help of historical and modern feminist theories. At the same time, this paper shows the limitations and contradictions that are parts of choice feminism. By revealing their shortcomings, the characters need to accept the gendered norms and social effects that form their choices. This study aims to critically analyse the novel's depiction of choice feminism through a close textual analysis and feminist theory, which can be enlightening for current discussions about the role of choice in feminist involvement and concept. This study will add new knowledge to the existing debate on women's agency and empowerment, echoes with themes about choice feminism in the modern era.

                                                                                                                            

 

References

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Published

2025-03-15

How to Cite

Haque, S., & Mahjabin, F. (2025). A Critical Analysis of the Representation of Choice Feminism in Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. Canadian Journal of Language and Literature Studies, 5(2), 40–53. https://doi.org/10.53103/cjlls.v5i2.201

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Salma Haque, Fima Mahjabin

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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