The Manipulative Nature of Jean Muir

"Nineteen." And a smile passed over Miss Muir's lips, as she folded her hands with an air of resignation, for the catechism was evidently to be a long one. (Alcott 1)

From the beginning of Louisa May Alcott's, "Behind a Mask," the main character Jean Muir exhibits a rather manipulative demeanor. This is not to say any of the other characters ever truly understand the depths of Jean's deceptions, however. The actual feelings towards Jean Muir from the other characters is seemingly unknowing. This is to say that throughout the events of the novella not once is Jean Muir's true identity, or age for that matter, fully known.
Another aspect of Jean Muir I would like to address is her relation to the pursuits of women writers at the time of "Behind a Mask's" publication. As many women still adhered to domesticity and submissiveness, such a character as Jean Muir was contrary to the time and tradition. Furthermore, the specific title of the work, "Behind a Mask," suggests the author may feel in relation with her character Jean Muir. This is to say that Jean Muir could be described as behind a mask throughout her role in the novella. Specifically, pay attention to the fact that women of the time were expected to write only out of necessity. If Alcott was writing this text out of necessity, why does the title allude to something more?
I assert that Alcott uses the title to infer that this novella serves more of a purpose than to simply feed hungry family members. Consequently, I predict that Alcott furthers her implications as to her reasons for producing this novella through the manipulative nature of Jean Muir. I wonder then, how much Jean Muir and Louisa Alcott are alike when pursuing their desires.