An Analysis of
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Marilla Makes Up Her Mind
An Analysis of Chapter 6
Tone
The Tone Fluctuates From Distress And Confusion Concerning The Mix-Up Regarding Anne'S Arrival, To Contemplative And Decisive As Marilla Ponders The Moral And Emotional Implications Of Her Decision Regarding Anne'S Future.
Basic Stats
| Intensity | Clarity | Conflict | Resolution | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Relaxed - (2) | Crystal-clear - (5) | Hostile - (4) | A decent amount - (3) | Moderate - (3) |
Basically...
Marilla and Anne visit Mrs. Spencer to clarify the mistake of Anne being sent to Green Gables. Despite an offer to pass Anne to Mrs. Blewett, Marilla decides to take Anne back to Green Gables to discuss the matter with Matthew.
In more detail...
Marilla Cuthbert and Anne Shirley arrive at the home of Mrs. Spencer, who is shocked to learn that there was a mix-up regarding the child they requested; they wanted a boy, not a girl. Flora Jane, Mrs. Spencer's daughter, inadvertently continues the miscommunication. Mrs. Spencer suggests that Anne could go live with Mrs. Blewett, a woman known for her hardness and strictness. While considering this offer, Marilla observes Anne's reaction and cannot bring herself to give the girl to such a household. Instead, she brings Anne back to Green Gables, promising Mrs. Blewett a decision by the next day. Back at Green Gables, Marilla expresses intentions to keep Anne to a relieved Matthew, concluding it could be their duty, and they agree to decide her fate after further discussion.
Characters
- Marilla Cuthbert
- About - Marilla faces the unexpected situation of deciding what to do with Anne after a misunderstanding with Mrs. Spencer. She reveals her compassionate side when she can't bring herself to let Anne live with Mrs. Blewett and her practical side when considering how Anne might fit into life at Green Gables.
- Personality Traits - Pragmatic, stern, yet capable of compassion and has a sense of duty.
- Physical Characteristics - Middle-aged, with features reflecting her practical and strong nature.
- Character Connections
- Anne Shirley - Current caregiver, pondering over her responsibility towards her.
- Matthew Cuthbert - Her brother; they discuss what to do with Anne and his opinions influence her decision.
- Mrs. Spencer - Interacts with her to understand the mix-up; they share a mutual respect but Marilla doubts her judgment.
- Anne Shirley
- About - Anne experiences a rollercoaster of emotions, fearing she will be sent to live with Mrs. Blewett and feeling hopeful when Marilla decides to bring her back to Green Gables for a final decision. Through her reactions, the reader further understands her need for a loving home and her high-strung temperament.
- Personality Traits - Imaginative, expressive, passionate, and longing for stability.
- Physical Characteristics - Eleven-years-old, wiry, with a pale face reflecting her emotions.
- Character Connections
- Marilla Cuthbert - Depends on Marilla's decision for a home and is hopeful to stay with her.
- Mrs. Spencer - Brought by Mrs. Spencer to Green Gables due to a misunderstanding.
- Mrs. Blewett - Fears being sent to live with Mrs. Blewett due to her harsh reputation.
- Matthew Cuthbert
- About - Matthew reveals through his quiet opposition to sending Anne to Mrs. Blewett that he has grown fond of the girl, hinting he would like her to stay.
- Personality Traits - Kind, soft-spoken, and empathetic towards Anne's situation.
- Physical Characteristics - An elderly man, often depicted as shy and gentle.
- Character Connections
- Marilla Cuthbert - His sister with whom he discusses Anne's future at Green Gables.
- Anne Shirley - Feels a growing fondness for Anne and prefers not to send her to Mrs. Blewett.
- Mrs. Spencer
- About - Mrs. Spencer is a benevolent but slightly flustered woman who is dismayed by the mix-up over Anne's placement. She suggests Mrs. Blewett as an alternative, not realizing the implications of her suggestion.
- Personality Traits - Well-intentioned but perhaps a bit careless with details.
- Physical Characteristics - Middle-aged with a 'benevolent face' reflecting her generally kind disposition.
- Character Connections
- Anne Shirley - Responsible for bringing Anne to the Cuthberts, albeit mistakenly.
- Marilla Cuthbert - Interacts with Marilla concerning the mix-up and offers a solution.
- Mrs. Blewett
- About - Mrs. Blewett is introduced as a potential caretaker for Anne, known for her harshness. Although she does not play a significant role in the chapter, her presence and reputation cause a moral dilemma for Marilla.
- Personality Traits - Known for being hardworking and stingy, with a reputation for harsh treatment of those under her care.
- Physical Characteristics - Described as small and shrewish-faced, with a stern appearance.
- Character Connections
- Anne Shirley - Anne is terrified of the possibility of living with her.
- Marilla Cuthbert - Her reputation influences Marilla's decision to reconsider keeping Anne.
- Flora Jane
- About - Flora Jane is Mrs. Spencer's daughter, unwittingly part of the mix-up by confirming the incorrect message regarding Anne's desired gender.
- Personality Traits - Described indirectly as 'flighty,' implying a lack of seriousness or responsibility.
- Physical Characteristics - Her physical characteristics are not detailed in the chapter.
- Character Connections
- Mrs. Spencer - Her mother, who feels the need to scold her for contributing to the mix-up.
- Marilla Cuthbert - Confirms to Marilla the wrong message was passed on about the child's gender.