What is Beth Sick With?
Beth is sick with scarlet fever, a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that was prevalent during the 19th century, particularly among children and young adults. This illness is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria and is characterized by a distinctive rash, fever, and sore throat, and if left untreated or if treatment is delayed, it can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage and heart problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Beth’s Illness
- How did Beth get scarlet fever?: Beth contracted scarlet fever after visiting a poor, sick German family, the Hummels, who were infected with the disease.
- What disease does Beth March have?: Beth March has scarlet fever, which she contracted from the Hummel family.
- What chapter does Beth get sick?: Beth gets sick in Chapter 18: Dark Days, where her family realizes she is much more seriously ill than initially thought.
- Does Beth get sick twice?: Yes, Beth gets sick twice, first contracting scarlet fever in Chapter 17 and recovering, but then getting weaker and weaker over time, eventually leading to her death in Chapter 40.
- What killed Beth March?: Beth March died from complications related to scarlet fever, which she had contracted earlier and never fully recovered from.
About the Characters and Plot
- Does Laurie actually love Amy?: Yes, Laurie does grow to love Amy, and they eventually get married, with Laurie finding in Amy a partner who brings out the best in him.
- Why was Jo so mean to Amy?: Jo and Amy have a harsh rivalry driven by their different values and passions, with Jo being a writer who prioritizes family and simplicity, and Amy being an artist who celebrates beauty and vanity.
- Do Amy and Laurie have a baby?: Yes, Amy and Laurie have a daughter named Elizabeth Laurence, also known as Bess, who develops a love for art like her mother.
- Does Meg get married before Beth dies?: Yes, Meg gets married before Beth dies, with Beth attending the wedding and being overjoyed by her sister’s happiness.
- Why did Laurie marry Amy and not Jo?: Laurie married Amy because he found in her a partner who improved him and brought out his best qualities, whereas with Jo, he felt they were too alike and he wouldn’t have to grow or take responsibility.
About the Book and its Themes
- What is Laurie’s secret?: Laurie’s secret is that Mr. Brooke carries Meg’s glove with him everywhere, symbolizing his love for Meg, which disgusts Jo due to her dislike of the idea of someone loving her sister and potentially taking her away.
- Does Jo March ever marry?: Yes, Jo March marries Friedrich, and together they turn Plumfield into a school, realizing Jo’s dream of creating a place for learning and personal growth.
- Why did Beth let the boy call her mom?: There is no indication in the provided context that Beth lets a boy call her mom; instead, it seems to refer to a different character or context.
- Why was Beth’s womb cut out?: The question about Beth’s womb being cut out seems to refer to a different story or context, possibly related to a character named Beth.
- Does Laurie ever kiss Jo?: Yes, Laurie does kiss Jo, but it’s a bashful kiss when Jo throws herself into his arms in relief and joy, indicating a deep affection but not necessarily romantic love.