The novel is set during the Christmas season, when the four March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy – are going through a difficult time in the absence of their father, who is away at war. In this spirit of Christmas, they show great generosity, sacrificing themselves to offer gifts to their mother and helping each other through their trials. The Christmas party in their home becomes a symbolic moment of sharing, family love and solidarity, reflecting the spirit of Christmas throughout the book.