An Analysis of Lucy Maud Montgomery's
Anne Of Green Gables

created by BookChat using OpenAI GPT 4 Turbo.
The basics...
Immerse yourself in the charming world of Anne Shirley, a young orphan whose fiery hair and spirit bring life to the tranquil community of Avonlea. Follow Anne's heartwarming journey from an eccentric outsider to a beloved friend and scholar in this captivating tale of growth, resilience, and imagination. Full of wit, poignant moments, and timeless themes, this book promises to enchant readers of all ages who dare to dream and cherish the magic of connection.
Tone
Whimsical, Reflective, Affectionate, Moralistic, Hopeful
Genre
Coming-Of-Age Novel
Why you might like it...
  • A must-read that beautifully illustrates the value of imagination, friendship, and perseverance.
  • L.M. Montgomery crafts a world so alive with detail and emotion; you can't help but fall in love with Anne's exceptional spirit.
  • This novel not only entertains but also offers profound lessons on embracing one's individuality and the complexities of growing up.
  • Readers will be touched by the sincere and often humorous portrayal of Anne's escapades and her indomitable character.
  • A perfect blend of humor, pathos, and growth, this book transcends generations with its universal appeal.
Why you might not...
  • Those looking for a fast-paced, action-driven narrative may find the gentle, introspective rhythm of Anne's life less engaging.
  • Readers who prefer contemporary settings might not connect with the historical backdrop of Prince Edward Island.
  • Some may find the book's emphasis on moral lessons and propriety indicative of its time, perhaps too didactic for modern tastes.
  • The book might come off as overly idealistic and simplistic to those who prefer more complex, grittier coming-of-age stories.
  • Anne's constant chatter and flights of fancy could be tiresome to readers who don't enjoy excessively imaginative characters.
Story Rankings by Chapter
The Main Characters (and who's talking to who...)
What happens... (contains spoilers!)
["Mrs. Rachel Lynde, Avonlea's keen-eyed resident, is astonished to see her neighbor Matthew Cuthbert heading to town, leading her to speculate a significant event is afoot at Green Gables, where she learns of the Cuthberts' plan to adopt an orphan boy to help with their farm.", "Matthew Cuthbert's journey to adopt an orphan boy concludes with an unforeseen twist when he finds the talkative and imaginative Anne Shirley waiting for him instead. Despite his initial misgivings, Matthew is charmed by Anne's chatter and brings her home to Green Gables.", "Returning with Anne, Marilla is bewildered by the mix-up. Despite Anne's visible heartbreak over not being wanted, Marilla allows her to stay one night. Both Marilla and Matthew find themselves amused and affected by Anne's dramatics and quirks.", "Anne wakes up to the enchanting landscape of Green Gables. Marilla dispenses practical advice and household chores, while Matthew silently wishes to keep Anne. Marilla and Anne head to town to resolve Anne's fate, leaving the future uncertain.", "During a carriage ride, Anne shares her life story with Marilla, recounting her past hardships and moments of transient happiness. Marilla is moved by Anne's resilience and starts questioning the decision to send her away.", "Marilla, considering Mrs. Blewett's harsh disposition as an alternative home for Anne, decides to bring the girl back to Green Gables, promising to make a decision the next day. After confiding in Matthew, they agree to deliberate further before deciding Anne's future.", "Anne's unfamiliarity with traditional prayers leads to a humorous yet tender moment with Marilla, who decides Anne requires religious education. Despite initial protests, Anne's prayer reflects her individuality and naive charm.", 'Marilla informs Anne that she can stay at Green Gables conditional on good behavior and gratitude. Anne is emotional but questions the lack of affection from Marilla, who emphasizes discipline over sentimentality.', "Mrs. Rachel Lynde's critical remarks about Anne's appearance provoke a passionate retort, leading to Anne being confined to her room. An impasse occurs until Anne delivers a heartfelt apology, restoring peace.", "Anne attends Sunday school, critically pondering the plainness of her attire and the dullness of the service, unaware that Marilla secretly shares her criticisms. Anne looks forward to reciting a 'tragic' poem the following Sunday.", "After a misunderstanding over proper church attire causes uproar, Anne is redeemed when she forges a 'bosom' friendship with Diana Barry and receives unexpected support from Matthew.", "Anne's anticipation of the upcoming Sunday-school picnic is overshadowed by her lateness in performing her domestic duties. Despite initial reluctance, Marilla concedes to prepare a picnic basket and Anne resolves to relish the event despite her misgivings.", "Anne's dramatized confession about a missing brooch, prompted by her desire to attend the picnic, leads to punishment when Marilla discovers the truth about the brooch. However, Anne is allowed to the picnic, closing the chapter on a content note.", 'At school, Anne endures humiliation and decides against returning. Marilla and Mrs. Lynde recommend that Anne take a break from school, with both expecting Anne to resume attendance on her own terms eventually.', "During Diana's visit to Green Gables for tea, Anne accidentally intoxicates her with currant wine, leading to a prohibition on their friendship. Anne is heartbroken, and Marilla fails to convince Mrs. Barry to see reason.", 'Anne, desolate without Diana, decides to distract herself by returning to school, where she finds herself engrossed in a rivalry with Gilbert Blythe, vowing to excel academically despite their personal enmity.', "Anne takes charge during an emergency when Diana's sister becomes ill, impressing the doctor and mending the rift with the Barry family. Anne is able to cherish her rekindled friendship with Diana.", "A night-time concert leads to Anne and Diana staying with Diana's Aunt Josephine, whose interrupted sleep results in a scolding and canceled plans. Anne's confession wins Josephine over, restoring Diana's prospects.", "Marilla is dismayed by Anne's unyielding imagination, fearing Anne will stumble into trouble. Anne faces her fears when tasked with a frightening errand, creating an opportunity for bravery and reflection.", "While planning a welcome for the new minister, Anne mistakenly uses liniment in a cake, embarrassing herself at the gathering. Despite the mistake, Anne receives comfort and understanding from the minister's wife.", "An invite from Mrs. Allan delights Anne, who overthinks her behavior for tea at the manse. Anne finds solace with Mrs. Allan, connecting over challenges they've faced, and hears news of a new teacher.", "During a game of 'daring,' Anne succumbs to peer pressure and suffers a sprained ankle. This catastrophe leads Marilla to realize her deep love for Anne as the community shows support during her recovery.", "Anne passionately engages in organizing a Christmas concert under Miss Stacy's mentorship, despite Marilla's reservations. The concert signifies both educational and artistic pursuits as Anne showcases her ambitious nature.", "Matthew's realization of Anne's need for fashionable attire results in a comedic adventure, with Anne eventually receiving a dress with the coveted puffed sleeves. Marilla and Matthew cherish Anne, pondering her future at Green Gables.", "Post-concert blues inspire Anne and the other girls to form a Story Club, with Anne's creativity steering the ship. Anne dreams of emulating Mrs. Allan and focuses on self-improvement as adolescence progresses.", 'Anne, aspiring to improve her character, commits a vain act, dying her hair green which then has to be cut short, leading to personal growth. Marilla observes this growth, noting the strength of their emotional bond.', "Anne's dramatic reenactment of 'Elaine' goes dangerously wrong, resulting in a rescue by Gilbert Blythe. Gilbert's offer of friendship is rejected by a prideful Anne, who begins questioning her actions.", "Anne and Diana's upcoming stay with Aunt Josephine promises a world of new experiences at the exhibition in town, leading to a reflection on the balance between the thrill of adventure and the comfort of home.", "Anticipation of joining Queen's Academy ranks high as Anne sets new academic aspirations. Anne's parents heartily prepare her for the journey, signaling a maturation in Anne's character and the beginning of new pursuits.", "Anne's introduction to life at Queen's is characterized by academic focus, friendships, and the discipline of balancing study with the innate longing for adventure, as she grows accustomed to her new surroundings.", "At the close of her term at Queen's, Anne anxiously awaits exam results, subsequently triumphing with the Avery Scholarship. As she relishes her achievements, concerns about Matthew's health cast a shadow on her success.", "Amidst Anne's triumphant recitation, a concert underscores her evolving identity and values, and despite anxieties about material wealth, Anne finds contentment in the simple pleasures of life and in her own achievements.", "Arrangements are made for Anne's transition to Queen's Academy, but Matthew's quiet observation reveals a deeper connection and appreciation for her. Amidst preparations, Anne feels the sorrow of departure mixing with excitement for the future.", "Anne's experience at Queen's during the winter changes her outlook. She adjusts to life at the academy, amidst academic competition, while cherishing her friendships and dreaming of what the future holds.", "On the brink of graduation from Queen's, Anne receives the glorious news of winning the Avery Scholarship. The joy of this dream clashes with the reality of Matthew's failing health and the family's financial distress.", "Green Gables is struck by tragedy with the sudden death of Matthew, deeply affecting Anne and Marilla. The community's support is a solace, and Marilla displays rare affection during this period of grief.", "With Marilla's sight at risk, Anne faces a turning point and chooses to stay at Green Gables, abandoning her college plans. A fortunate turn of events, instigated by Gilbert, allows her to fulfill this duty and begin teaching local children."]
Narrative Arcs
  • Anne's arrival and the impact on Green Gables residents
  • Anne's struggle to fit into Avonlea society and its norms
  • Anne's development from a romantic, imaginative child to a more grounded young woman
  • The education and ambitions of Anne as she strives for academic success
  • Triumphs, escapades, and mishaps shaping Anne's character and relationships
Main Plot Points
  • Anne Shirley's inadvertent arrival at Green Gables and her subsequent adoption by the Cuthberts.
  • Anne's developing friendship with Diana Barry and her run-ins with Gilbert Blythe.
  • Anne's academic rivalry with Gilbert and her success in earning the Avery Scholarship.
  • The reconciliation of Anne and Marilla after the death of Matthew Cuthbert.
  • Anne's decision to forego her scholarship to help Marilla at Green Gables, marking her growth into maturity.