1.1 Being Neighbourly by Louisa May Alcott.

• Difficult with their meanings:

 1. Sacque: A short jacket or outer garment.

2. Betokening: Indicating or showing.

3. Conservatory: A glass room outside a house used for growing plants.

4. Wistfully: Longingly or sadly thinking of the past.

5. Bashfulness: Shyness or hesitation in social situations.

6. Reveled: Enjoyed in a lively, noisy way without restraint.

7. Prim: Formal and proper in behavior or appearance.

8. Velour: A plush or soft fabric.

9. Apprehensions: Feelings of anxiety or fear.

10. Gruff: Rough or harsh in manner or speech.

11. Hummels: A poor family mentioned in the story.

12. Affair: In this context, it refers to an event or situation.

13. Neighbourly: Being friendly and helpful as a neighbour.

14. Invalid: In this context, it refers to someone who is sick or disabled.

15. Dismal: Gloomy, depressing, or dreary.

16. Lively fancy: A vivid or imaginative way of thinking.

17. Splendors: Magnificent or impressive displays or features.

18. Enchanted palace: A magical or captivating place filled with wonders.

19. Kindly: In a friendly or generous manner.

20. Curate: A clergyman, usually assisting a vicar or rector.

21. Prodigy: A person, especially a child, who is exceptionally talented or intelligent.

22. Velour chair: A chair covered with plush or soft fabric.

23. Tremendous will: Strong determination or stubbornness.

24. Tremendous: Very great or large.

25. Fidgety: Nervous, restless, or unable to keep still.

26. Kind eyes: Eyes that show kindness or warmth.

27. Distracting: Diverting or attracting one's attention away from something else.

28. Parrot: A colourful bird capable of mimicking human speech.

29. Marmee: A term of endearment used for the girls' mother.

30. Redder: More red or blushing to a greater extent.

31. Spiritedly: With energy or enthusiasm.

32. Blunt: Direct and straightforward, often to the point of rudeness.

33. Apprehensions: Feelings of anxiety or fear about the future.

34. Hummels: A poor family the March family helps.

35. Bashful: Shy or hesitant in social situations.

36. Revelled: Enjoyed in a lively, noisy way without restraint.

37. Affair: In this context, it refers to an event or situation.

38. Neighborly: Being friendly and helpful as a neighbour.

39. Hoarsely: With a rough or harsh voice.

40. Tombs: A figure of speech known as a simile, comparing the dullness of the house to the gloomy and lifeless atmosphere of tombs.

"Being Neighborly" by Louisa May Alcott, the important places:

 1. The Marches' House: Jo and her family's home, which stands in a suburb of the city with a garden where the story begins.

 2. Mr Laurence's House: A stately stone mansion neighbouring the Marches' house, where Laurie (Theodore Laurence) lives with his grandfather.

 3. The Garden: The Marches’ Garden, separated from Mr Laurence's estate by a low hedge.

 4. The Library: A room in Mr. Laurence's house, lined with books, pictures, statues, and various curiosities.

 5. The Snowy Outdoors: At the beginning of the lesson, Jo is tramping through the snowy outdoors, engaging in various activities like walking and digging paths.

 6. The Parlor: In Mr Laurence's house, there is a little parlour where Laurie and Jo have a conversation and get to know each other better.

 7. The Kitchen: Jo brings a covered dish of blanc-mange (a type of pudding) to Laurie's house to offer him some comfort during his illness.

 8. The Hummels' Home: Jo talks about the Hummels, a poor family in need, whom her mother helps, showcasing a place where charitable actions are taking place.

 9. The Hummels' Neighborhood: Though not explicitly mentioned, the place where the Hummels live is important in illustrating the kindness and generosity of the March family.

 10. The Fireplace: In Mr Laurence's library, there is a great open fireplace with quaint tiles all around it, where Jo spends time admiring her surroundings.

 11. The Garden Path: Jo sweeps a path around the Marches' garden for Beth to walk when she recovers from her illness.

 12. The Stately Stone Mansion: Mr Laurence's house is described as a stately stone mansion, indicating its grandeur and significance in the story.

 13. Jo's Great-Aunt's Home: Jo mentions that she works as a companion for her great-aunt, who is a "cross old soul." Though not visited in the lesson, this place is essential in explaining Jo's current occupation.

 These places contribute to the setting, atmosphere, and interactions between the characters, making them significant in the overall narrative.

 

List of characters from the lesson "Being Neighborly" :

 1. Jo March: Jo is one of the four March sisters and is known for her adventurous and lively personality. She takes an interest in the Laurence boy, Laurie, and is determined to befriend him and bring some cheer into his life.

 2. Meg March: Meg is the eldest of the March sisters and has a more practical and domestic nature. She is content to stay warm and comfortable by the fire, reading and enjoying quiet activities.

 3. Laurie (Theodore Laurence): Laurie is the grandson of Mr Laurence and lives in the stately stone mansion next door to the March family. He is initially depicted as being lonely and sick, but Jo's neighbourly visit brightens his spirits.

 4. Mr Laurence: The wealthy and elderly neighbour of the Marches, who lives in the grand mansion next door. He is a kind-hearted man, and despite his stern appearance, he develops a soft spot for Jo.

 5. Beth March: Beth is the third sister in the March family and is described as gentle and kind. She loves her "invalid dolls" and is currently recovering from an illness.

 6. Mr Brooke: Mr Brooke is Laurie's tutor and does not reside in the Laurence mansion but visits occasionally. He is mentioned in the conversation between Jo and Laurie.

 7. Aunt March: She is Jo's great-aunt, a "cross old soul" whom Jo works for as a companion.

 8. The Hummels: Though not directly present in the story, the Hummels are a poor family whom the March family helps, and Jo mentions their situation to Mr Laurence.

 9. Amy March: Amy is the youngest of the March sisters, known for her curly hair and artistic talents. While she is not prominently featured in this specific part of the story, she is mentioned in conversation with Laurie.

 10. Servants: In both the Marches' house and Mr Laurence's mansion, there are several servants mentioned, though they don't play major roles in the story.

 11. The Parrot: A parrot that can talk Spanish is mentioned as one of the amusing features in Mr. Laurence's house.

 12. The Hummels' Mother: The mother of the poor Hummel family is cared for and helped by Mrs March.

 13. Doctor: The doctor is mentioned as visiting Laurie during his illness.

 14. Beth's Three Kittens: Kittens belonging to Beth are brought by Jo to Laurie's house as a comforting gift during his sickness.

 15. Laurie's Grandfather's Friends: Mr Laurence is depicted as having friends who visit him.

 16. The Maid: A servant in Mr. Laurence's house announces Jo's arrival during her visit.

 

The main points from the lesson "Being Neighborly":

 1. The March family lives in a suburb of the city, separated from Mr Laurence's stately stone mansion by a low hedge.

 2. Jo March, the adventurous and lively sister, is eager to befriend Laurie (Theodore Laurence), who appears lonely and sick.

 3. Jo takes the initiative to visit Laurie and bring some cheer into his life. She finds him looking wistfully out of the window.

 4. Jo and Laurie strike up a conversation, and Jo discovers that Laurie is not allowed to have much fun or entertainment while he is recovering.

 5. Jo's neighbourly visit to Laurie's house brings comfort and amusement, and she offers him a covered dish of blanc-mange and Beth's three kittens for company.

 6. Mr Laurence, Laurie's grandfather, returns home during Jo's visit. Jo feels a little awkward, but the old gentleman surprises her by being kind and friendly.

 7. Jo and Mr Laurence talk, and she learns that he was friends with her deceased grandfather and that they admired each other.

 8. Jo's warm and genuine nature endears her to Mr Laurence, and he appreciates her efforts to bring joy to Laurie's life.

 9. The lesson emphasizes the value of kindness, friendship, and being neighbourly to those who may need companionship.

 10. The story also portrays the importance of understanding and connecting with others, regardless of age or social status.

 11. The setting of the snowy suburban neighbourhood with contrasting houses symbolizes the different worlds of the Marches and the Laurences, yet the story shows how these worlds can intersect and benefit from each other's company.

"Detailed Summary of the Lesson 'Being Neighborly'":

 The lesson "Being Neighborly" by Louisa May Alcott revolves around the March family and their interactions with their wealthy neighbors, the Laurences. The story begins on a snowy afternoon when Jo March, the adventurous and lively sister, is seen tramping through the snow in rubber boots, looking for something to do. Meg, the eldest sister, advises her to stay warm by the fire, but Jo, never one to be idle, decides to go out for exercise and find some adventures.

 The March family lives in a suburb of the city, and their house is separated from Mr. Laurence's stately stone mansion by a low hedge. Jo is curious about the Laurences, especially the young boy, Laurie, who seems lonely and sick. She has long wanted to know him and see the hidden glories of the Laurence mansion.

 One day, Jo notices Laurie looking wistfully out of an upper window, and she decides to make her move. She waves at him, and they start a conversation. Jo learns that Laurie has been shut up in the house due to his illness, and he longs for company and fun. Jo suggests that he should have someone to read or amuse him, but Laurie feels uncomfortable constantly asking his tutor, Mr. Brooke.

 Jo decides to be neighborly and offers to visit Laurie, which he eagerly accepts. She brings a covered dish of blanc-mange and Beth's three kittens to keep him company. When Mr. Laurence returns home unexpectedly during Jo's visit, she feels a little awkward. However, she is surprised to find that he is kind and friendly, even though he looks stern. Jo and Mr. Laurence talk, and she discovers that he was friends with her late grandfather and holds him in high regard.

 The old gentleman appreciates Jo's efforts to bring joy to Laurie's life and compliments her for her grandfather's spirit. Jo's warm and genuine nature endears her to Mr. Laurence, and he approves of her visits to Laurie. He also reveals that Laurie's mother was a dear friend to him, further strengthening the connection between the families.

 The lesson emphasizes the importance of being neighborly and showing kindness to others. Jo's friendly approach and willingness to reach out to Laurie and Mr. Laurence bridge the gap between the two households, showing that true friendship knows no boundaries of age or social status.

 The story also highlights the value of understanding and connecting with people in times of loneliness or illness. Jo's actions not only bring joy to Laurie but also touch Mr. Laurence's heart, reminding him of the friendship he had with Jo's grandfather.

 In conclusion, "Being Neighborly" is a heartwarming tale that emphasizes the power of kindness, compassion, and genuine friendship. Through Jo's neighborly gestures, the lesson illustrates how simple acts of reaching out to others can have a significant and positive impact on their lives. It showcases the transformative effect that being kind and caring can have, fostering connections and making the world a better place.

Questions and answers based on the lesson "Being Neighborly’:

 1. Question: Who is the protagonist of the story "Being Neighborly"?

   Answer: Jo March is the protagonist of the story.

 2. Question: How does Jo describe the Laurence mansion?

   Answer: Jo describes the Laurence mansion as a kind of enchanted palace, full of splendors and delights that no one seems to enjoy.

 3. Question: Why does Jo visit Laurie?

   Answer: Jo visits Laurie to bring him some cheer and company, as he seems lonely and sick.

 4. Question: What does Jo bring to Laurie during her visit?

   Answer: Jo brings a covered dish of blanc-mange and Beth's three kittens to keep Laurie company.

 5. Question: How does Laurie feel about having Jo's company during his illness?

   Answer: Laurie is grateful for Jo's company and feels better with her around.

 6. Question: Who is Mr. Laurence?

   Answer: Mr. Laurence is Laurie's wealthy and kind-hearted grandfather who lives in the stately stone mansion next door to the Marches.

 7. Question: How does Jo initially feel when she meets Mr. Laurence unexpectedly during her visit?

   Answer: Jo feels a little awkward when she meets Mr. Laurence unexpectedly but is surprised by his kind and friendly nature.

 8. Question: What is the significance of Jo and Mr. Laurence's conversation about Jo's grandfather?

   Answer: The conversation about Jo's grandfather connects the families and strengthens the bond between Jo and Mr. Laurence.

 9. Question: What does Jo appreciate about Mr. Laurence?

   Answer: Jo appreciates Mr. Laurence's kind eyes and the sly twinkle in them, which lessens her apprehensions.

 10. Question: Why does Jo believe Laurie needs cheering up?

    Answer: Jo believes Laurie needs cheering up because he seems lonely and lacking in fun during his illness.

 11. Question: What does Jo suggest to Laurie to alleviate his loneliness?

    Answer: Jo suggests that Laurie should have someone young and lively to amuse him, such as a nice girl who could read or play nurse.

 12. Question: What is the significance of Jo offering to be neighborly to Laurie?

    Answer: Jo's neighborly gesture bridges the gap between the two households and emphasizes the importance of kindness and reaching out to others.

 13. Question: How does Jo describe the Marches' house?

    Answer: Jo describes the Marches' house as a warm and cozy place with loving family members and happy times.

 14. Question: How do the Laurence and March families become acquainted with each other?

    Answer: The Laurence and March families become acquainted when Jo decides to visit Laurie and bring him comfort and companionship.

 15. Question: Why is Jo surprised by Mr. Laurence's kindness?

    Answer: Jo is surprised by Mr. Laurence's kindness because he initially appears stern and unapproachable.

 16. Question: What does Laurie admire about the March family through the window?

    Answer: Laurie admires the March family's happy and warm gatherings through the window, which makes him feel a little less lonely.

 17. Question: How does Jo react when Mr. Laurence asks her if she is afraid of him?

    Answer: Jo responds honestly that she is a little bit afraid of him, but she doesn't know why she should be.

 18. Question: How does Mr. Laurence feel about Jo not being afraid of him?

    Answer: Mr. Laurence appreciates Jo's honesty and her straightforward nature. He finds her resemblance to her grandfather admirable.

 19. Question: What does Jo bring to Laurie as a comforting gift during his illness?

    Answer: Jo brings a covered dish of blanc-mange and Beth's three kittens as a comforting gift for Laurie during his illness.

 20. Question: What are the main themes explored in the lesson "Being Neighborly"?

    Answer: The main themes explored in the lesson are kindness, friendship, compassion, and the power of reaching out to others in times of need.

21. Question: Why does Jo want to befriend Laurie and get to know him?

    Answer: Jo wants to befriend Laurie because she sees him looking lonely and sick, and she believes he needs some company and cheer during his illness.

 22. Question: How does Jo's visit to Laurie impact him emotionally?

    Answer: Jo's visit brings joy and comfort to Laurie, lifting his spirits and making him feel better despite his illness.

 23. Question: How does Mr. Laurence react when Jo praises Laurie's kindness?

    Answer: Mr. Laurence appreciates Jo's kind words about Laurie and seems pleased that Jo sees the good in his grandson.

 24. Question: Why does Laurie find Jo's company pleasant and enjoyable?

    Answer: Laurie finds Jo's company pleasant and enjoyable because she is lively, adventurous, and not afraid to be herself around him.

 25. Question: What do Jo and Laurie have in common that helps them connect?

    Answer: Jo and Laurie share a love for books, which becomes a common ground for their friendship.

 26. Question: How does Jo transform Mr. Laurence's perception of her during their conversation?

    Answer: Jo's genuine and friendly nature transforms Mr. Laurence's perception of her from being a stranger to being someone he admires for her resemblance to her grandfather.

 27. Question: What does Jo mean when she says, "I'm a businessman - girl"?

    Answer: Jo means that she is not like most girls who prefer to stay at home; instead, she is active, adventurous, and likes to go out and have adventures.

 28. Question: Why does Jo bring Beth's three kittens to Laurie?

    Answer: Jo brings the kittens as a comforting gift to keep Laurie company during his illness.

 29. Question: How does Jo's visit impact the relationship between the March and Laurence families?

    Answer: Jo's visit brings the two families closer, fostering a sense of neighborliness and creating a connection between them.

 30. Question: How does the story highlight the value of being compassionate and understanding towards others?

    Answer: The story emphasizes the importance of being compassionate and understanding, as Jo's kindness brings happiness to Laurie and touches Mr. Laurence's heart.

 31. Question: What does the contrast between the Laurence mansion and the Marches' house symbolize in the story?

    Answer: The contrast symbolizes the different worlds and backgrounds of the two families, but also shows how genuine friendship can transcend these differences.

 32. Question: How does Jo's visit to Laurie's house affect her perception of Mr. Laurence?

    Answer: Jo's visit helps her see Mr. Laurence as more than just a stern and unapproachable figure. She begins to appreciate his kindness and warmth.

 33. Question: What does Jo's interaction with Mr. Laurence reveal about her character?

    Answer: Jo's interaction with Mr. Laurence reveals her straightforward and genuine nature, as well as her ability to be kind and compassionate to others.

 34. Question: How does the story promote the importance of being a good neighbor?

    Answer: The story promotes the importance of being a good neighbor by showing how simple acts of kindness and reaching out to others can create meaningful connections and bring joy to both parties.

 35. Question: How does Jo's friendship with Laurie benefit both of them?

    Answer: Jo's friendship with Laurie benefits both of them as it brings joy and comfort to Laurie during his illness and gives Jo the opportunity to form a new and meaningful friendship.

 36. Question: What lesson can readers learn from Jo's actions in the story?

    Answer: Readers can learn the importance of being kind, compassionate, and friendly to others, even to those who may seem different or distant at first.

 37. Question: How does Jo's character challenge gender norms of her time?

    Answer: Jo's character challenges gender norms of her time by being adventurous, independent, and not conforming to traditional expectations of how a young lady should behave.

 38. Question: How does Jo's approach to befriending Laurie differ from Meg's?

    Answer: Jo's approach to befriending Laurie is more adventurous and daring, while Meg prefers to stay by the fire and be more cautious.

 39. Question: How does the story illustrate the power of friendship to overcome loneliness and illness?

    Answer: The story illustrates that genuine friendship and caring can help alleviate loneliness and provide comfort and support, as seen through Jo's impact on Laurie during his illness.

 40. Question: What are the broader societal themes explored in "Being Neighborly"?

    Answer: Some broader societal themes explored in the story include the importance of kindness, understanding, and the value of building connections within the community. It also challenges societal norms regarding gender roles and highlights the significance of being open-minded and accepting of others.

 Character Sketches on the lesson "Being Neighborly’:

1. Jo March:

Jo March is the protagonist of the story, a lively and adventurous young woman with a strong-willed and independent personality. She is the second eldest of the four March sisters and is known for her tomboyish ways and unconventional behavior. Jo is fiercely loyal to her family and friends, always willing to go the extra mile to help and support them. She has a passion for reading and writing and dreams of becoming a successful author someday. Jo's determination and courage often lead her into various daring adventures, making her the center of attention among her sisters. Despite her strong exterior, Jo also has a sensitive and caring side, especially towards her younger sister Beth, whom she adores. Throughout the story, Jo's character undergoes growth and development as she learns the value of kindness, friendship, and being neighborly.

 2. Meg March:

Meg March is the eldest of the March sisters, and she is portrayed as the responsible and motherly figure in the family. She is gentle, patient, and takes her role as the oldest sister seriously, often guiding and advising her younger siblings. Meg is more traditional and ladylike compared to Jo, and she dreams of a happy and secure family life. She enjoys domestic pursuits and is often found caring for the household or reading romantic novels. Despite her desire for a comfortable life, Meg is also selfless and caring, always willing to help others, including her friend Laurie and her younger sister Amy. Throughout the story, Meg learns to balance her dreams and responsibilities, understanding that being a good neighbor and friend is equally important.

 3. Laurie (Theodore Laurence):

Laurie, whose full name is Theodore Laurence, is the kind-hearted and lonely boy who lives in the stately mansion next door to the March family. He is the grandson of Mr. Laurence and becomes a close friend of the March sisters, particularly Jo. Laurie is depicted as being warm-hearted, fun-loving, and somewhat mischievous. He admires the March family's loving dynamics and is drawn to Jo's adventurous spirit and genuine nature. Despite his wealthy background, Laurie is down-to-earth and longs for genuine friendship and companionship. Throughout the story, Laurie's character evolves as he finds comfort and happiness in the company of the March sisters, and he learns valuable lessons about kindness, friendship, and the importance of being neighborly.

 4. Mr. Laurence:

Mr. Laurence is Laurie's grandfather, a wealthy and stern-looking man who lives in the grand mansion next door to the March family. He is initially portrayed as a bit unapproachable, but his character softens as the story progresses. Mr. Laurence is an old-fashioned gentleman with a kind heart hidden behind his serious demeanor. He has a strong bond with Laurie, whom he loves dearly, but he also appreciates the March family's lively and warm atmosphere. As the story unfolds, Mr. Laurence's character undergoes a transformation as he becomes more open and accepting of the March family, especially Jo. He comes to admire Jo's resemblance to her grandfather and appreciates her genuine and bold nature. Mr. Laurence's friendship with the Marches highlights the importance of understanding and accepting others, regardless of social differences.

 5. Beth March:

Beth March is the third sister in the March family, known for her gentle and shy nature. She is the most sensitive and soft-spoken among the sisters, often described as the peacemaker in the family. Beth has a deep love for music and is a skilled pianist, finding solace and comfort in playing the piano. She is also deeply compassionate and caring, always thinking of others before herself. Beth's kind and nurturing personality endears her to both her family and their neighbors. Despite her fragile health, Beth remains optimistic and content, finding joy in simple pleasures. Her friendship with Laurie brings a sense of joy and companionship into her life. Beth's character emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and the power of small acts of kindness in building strong relationships.

 6. Amy March:

Amy March is the youngest of the March sisters, and she is characterized by her vivacious and artistic nature. Amy is often depicted as the "little lady" of the family, aspiring to become refined and sophisticated. She loves art and enjoys painting and sketching. While she may come across as a bit self-centered and materialistic at times, Amy also shows moments of growth and maturity. As the story progresses, Amy learns valuable lessons about humility and the true meaning of beauty, understanding that kindness and inner qualities hold greater importance than superficial appearance. Her relationship with her sisters, especially Jo, highlights the dynamics of sibling rivalry and the importance of forgiveness and understanding.

 Themes:

 1. Sisterhood and Family Bonds: The central theme of the story revolves around the strong bond of sisterhood and the love shared between the March sisters. Despite their differences, the sisters support and care for each other through various challenges, emphasizing the importance of family unity and loyalty.

 2. Friendship and Kindness: The story emphasizes the power of friendship and the impact of simple acts of kindness. Jo's friendship with Laurie and Mr. Laurence demonstrates the transformative effect of genuine connections and compassion.

 3. Adventure and Imagination: Jo's adventurous spirit and love for imagination inspire readers to embrace their creativity and pursue their dreams fearlessly. The story encourages the idea of exploring life with curiosity and enthusiasm.

 4. Gender Roles and Expectations: The novel challenges traditional gender roles and societal expectations of women during the time it was written. It highlights the desire for individuality and independence in a society that often limited women's opportunities and aspirations.

 5. Becoming Neighborly: The title of the story, "Being Neighborly," emphasizes the theme of reaching out to others and fostering friendly relations with neighbours. Through Jo's efforts to befriend Laurie and her interactions with Mr. Laurence, the story underscores the importance of building bridges between individuals and cultivating a sense of community.

 6. Empathy and Compassion: The characters' empathy and compassion towards one another create a harmonious and supportive environment. The story portrays the significance of understanding and caring for others, especially during times of illness or emotional distress.

 7. Gratitude and Humility: The March family's gratitude for the kindness and support they receive from neighbours like Mr. Laurence and the Hummels exemplifies the value of humility and acknowledging the goodness in others.

 8. Growth and Development: Each character experiences personal growth and development throughout the story, learning important life lessons and maturing emotionally. Their individual journeys highlight the importance of self-discovery and continuous learning.

 The themes and character dynamics in "Being Neighborly" by Louisa May Alcott resonate with readers, offering valuable insights into human relationships and the importance of kindness, understanding, and compassion in building a supportive and nurturing community.

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