QUESTIONS

1. The novel includes graphically described scenes of violence. Do these scenes represent March’s point of view, or does the author have her own agenda? Is it realistic to think that March would write such disturbing details in his journal?
   

2. If you read Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, what impression did you get of Mr. March’s character from that book?
   

3. How have March’s ideals affected his family? Are they a stronger family or better people because of them? Think back to an early part of the story, after he loses his money.
   

4. Does March do any good things? Make a list of when he helpful and when he bungles things.
   

5. March is idealistic and naive about carrying out his ideals. Do his ideals help or hinder him as he moves through the violent and cruel world in which he finds himself?
   

6. Is it believable that any person, especially an educated man of this time, could be as naïve as March seems to be? Is the author ridiculing her character or his type?
   

7. What are March’s true feelings toward Grace, love, lust, or something else?
   

8. March feels responsible for the deaths of several people. Is he responsible?
   

9. Is this an anti-war book?
   

10. What does the story convey about the subtle nature of racism (look at some of Marmee’s comment, the washerwomen who gossip about Grace, March himself)?
    

11. Pay careful attention to the passage on courage and cowardice on page 168. Is March a coward? Who are the brave individuals in this book?
    

12. In the second part of the story we pick up Marmee’s version of events. What does her point of view add to the story?
    

13. Are Marmee’s complaints about her life justified?
    

14. Why does March misinterpret so many of his wife’s actions and beliefs? Why does Marmee understand so little about her husband?
    

15. Will March be able to adjust to domestic life after his war experiences? What could possibly “save” him?