Analyze Craft and Structure—from Louisa May Alcott: Her Life, Letters, and Journals, Louisa May Alcott and Ednah D. Cheney

Read this passage from Louisa May Alcott: Her Life, Letters, and Journals. Then, answer the question(s).

When Louisa was about seven years old she made a visit to friends in Providence. Miss C. writes of her: "She is a beautiful little girl to look upon, and I love her affectionate manners. I think she is more like her mother than either of [her sisters]." As is usually the case, Louisa's journal, which she began at this early age, speaks more fully of her struggles and difficulties than of the bright, sunny moods which made her attractive. A little letter carefully printed and sent home during this visit is preserved. In it she says she is not happy; and she did have one trying experience there, to which she refers in "My Boys." Seeing some poor children who she thought were hungry, she took food from the house without asking permission, and carried it to them, and was afterward very much astonished and grieved at being reprimanded instead of praised for the deed.…

Which of the following answer choices best explains the author's purpose in this paragraph?
A. to tell of a time when Louisa May Alcott disobeyed as a child
B. to explain how many friends Louisa May Alcott had
C. to show what Louisa May Alcott was like as a child
D. to show how interested in writing Louisa May Alcott was

1 answer

The best answer choice that explains the author's purpose in the paragraph is:

C. to show what Louisa May Alcott was like as a child.

The passage provides insight into Louisa May Alcott's character by describing her affectionate nature, her struggles, and her compassionate actions, which reflect her personality as a child. It highlights her sensitivity to the needs of others, as well as her experiences and feelings, painting a broader picture of who she was during her early years.