Innocent, yet ambitious

Despite Louisa May Alcott’s vast popularity among readers of all ages, literary critics, and historians, the image of childhood in the Little Women series has been studied remarkably little. Therefore, this book will provide an insight into the 19th century American childhood, based on the four novels of the series: Little Women or Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy (1868), Good Wives (1869), Little Men: Life at Plumfield with Jo''s Boys (1871), and Jo’s Boys and How They Turned Out (1886). The first part of this book presents the history of childhood in the western world, concentrating on 19th century America. Secondly, Alcott’s life, works and the Little Women series are described. Finally, the core analysis consists of five subsections: Childhood in the Little Women series, Romantic Innocence, Little Adults, School, and Play. This book is a part of a relatively new branch of science, childhood studies, and thus serves professionals, students, and all those who are fascinated by Louisa May Alcott and her writings.