American History Tellers Great American Authors | Louisa May Alcott: The Breadwinner | 2
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Nov 29, 2023 Louisa May Alcott, beloved author of Little Women, defied societal norms by exploring the aspirations and challenges faced by young women. The podcast delves into Alcott's early life, her determination to continue writing despite rejection, and the creation and impact of her beloved novel.
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Alcott's Early Rejection
- Louisa May Alcott was rejected by publisher James T. Fields in 1854, who told her she could not write.
- Instead of giving up, she was determined to prove him wrong and succeeded later in her career.
Bronson's Educational Idealism Fails
- Bronson Alcott applied Transcendentalist ideals to education but faced backlash, leading to the closure of his Experimental Temple School.
- This showcased the struggle between idealism and societal norms in the 19th century.
Break from Fruitlands Utopia
- Abba Alcott confronted Bronson in 1843, choosing family survival over his idealistic but impractical Commune, Fruitlands.
- She moved away with her daughters to protect them from hardship and neglect.