In Chapter 2 of Big Little Lies, the narrative takes a deeper dive into the lives of the three main characters: Madeline, Celeste, and Jane. Each woman's backstory is intricately woven into the fabric of their current struggles, shedding light on their motivations and the complexities of their relationships.

Madeline Mackenzie is portrayed as a strong and determined woman, but her life is a balancing act filled with challenges. She is a mother of three, navigating the tumultuous waters of family life, her career, and her relationships. Madeline's character is marked by her fierce loyalty and her desire to control the narrative of her life, which often leads her into conflict with her own family and friends. Her relationship with her husband Nathan is strained, largely due to his infidelity and her unresolved feelings about their marriage. The chapter reveals her frustration with societal expectations of motherhood and her inner turmoil regarding her own choices, illustrating the pressure she feels to maintain a perfect facade despite the chaos beneath.

Celeste Wright, a former lawyer, is introduced as a woman trapped in an abusive marriage. The chapter highlights her internal struggles as she grapples with the fear of leaving her husband, Perry, and the impact it would have on her children. Celeste’s past as a successful professional contrasts sharply with her current situation, emphasizing the complexities of domestic violence and the psychological grip it has on victims. The narrative delves into her conflicting emotions—her love for her children and the desire to protect them versus her need for freedom and safety. Celeste’s story is one of resilience, but also of the profound fear and isolation that accompanies her situation, providing a stark look at the realities many face in similar circumstances.

Jane Chapman, the newest addition to the group, is depicted as a woman dealing with her own haunting past. The chapter explores her experiences as a single mother to her son, Ziggy, who faces accusations of bullying at school. Jane's struggle with her identity and the stigma she faces as a newcomer in the tight-knit community is palpable. She is portrayed as vulnerable yet determined to advocate for her son while also confronting her own demons. Jane's backstory hints at trauma that shapes her views on motherhood and friendship, revealing her deep-seated fears and insecurities.

As the chapter progresses, the lives of these three women begin to intertwine, setting the stage for their eventual friendships. Their individual struggles, from Madeline's quest for validation and control, Celeste's fight for safety, to Jane's battle for acceptance and understanding, reflect the themes of domestic life and the nuanced complexities of womanhood. This chapter serves as a foundation, establishing the characters’ motivations and the societal pressures they face, which will be crucial as the story unfolds further into the narrative.