“Anne with an E” is a series that reimagines Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel “Anne of Green Gables,” exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of forging one’s path. Episode 4 of Season 1, titled “An Inward Treasure Born,” delves into Anne’s staunch refusal to return to school after facing bullying and social exclusion. This episode highlights Anne’s resilience, her complex relationship with Marilla, and the burgeoning acceptance she slowly begins to find in Avonlea.
Anne’s Imaginative Retreat
The episode opens with Anne (Amybeth McNulty), deeply entrenched in her imagination, seeking solace from the harsh realities of school. After enduring bullying, particularly regarding her appearance and orphan status, Anne decides to boycott school, much to Marilla’s (Geraldine James) consternation. Matthew (R.H. Thomson), ever gentle and understanding, observes Anne’s imaginative play with concern, recognizing her need for emotional refuge.
Marilla, unsure how to handle Anne’s defiance, turns to Rachel Lynde (Corrine Koslo) for advice. Rachel, known for her practical wisdom, suggests allowing Anne to come to a decision on her own, believing she will eventually tire of her self-imposed isolation. However, Marilla’s patience wears thin when Anne’s daydreaming leads to a near-disaster in the kitchen, almost burning a pie. This incident prompts Marilla to force Anne to return to school, leading to a heated argument where Anne expresses her feelings of being hated and friendless.
The School Dilemma
Anne’s reluctance to return to school stems from the social dynamics and the cruelty she experiences from her classmates. She confides in Marilla that even Diana (Dalila Bela), her close friend, cannot openly display their friendship for fear of becoming a target of bullying. Gilbert Blythe (Lucas Jade Zumann), though not intentionally malicious, contributes to Anne’s distress by teasing her about her red hair, a sensitive subject for Anne.
To avoid school, Anne resorts to lying, telling Marilla she is attending classes while spending her days in the woods, indulging in her imagination and reading. Her deception is uncovered when Diana and Ruby (Kyla Matthews) visit Green Gables to return her books, revealing her absence from school.
A Minister’s Misguided Advice
Marilla, upon discovering Anne’s lies, seeks guidance from the local minister, hoping he can persuade Anne to return to school and embrace honesty. However, the minister’s advice is both outdated and unhelpful. He suggests that Anne should focus on developing housekeeping skills to prepare for marriage, reinforcing traditional gender roles and undermining Anne’s intellectual aspirations. This backward advice has the opposite effect, causing Anne to fiercely challenge gender norms and further resist the idea of conforming to societal expectations.
Bravery in the Face of Fire
A turning point in the episode occurs when a fire threatens the Gillis farmhouse. In a moment of bravery, Anne rushes into the burning house to close the doors, slowing the fire’s spread and potentially saving the house. Gilbert witnesses Anne’s courageous act and calls out to her, but Anne is focused on the task at hand.
Marilla, witnessing Anne’s bravery and quick thinking, is initially horrified but ultimately proud of her. When asked how she knew what to do, Anne explains that she learned about fire safety from a manual at the orphanage, highlighting her resourcefulness and the value of her past experiences. This act of heroism begins to shift the community’s perception of Anne, as they witness her courage and selflessness firsthand.
Ruby’s Gratitude and Growing Acceptance
Following the fire, Ruby Gillis is forced to stay with Anne and the Cuthberts, as her family’s home is temporarily uninhabitable. Initially, Ruby is unhappy about the arrangement, fearing what others might think of her associating with an orphan. However, Diana defends Anne, asserting that Anne is “marvelous” and that others’ opinions should not matter.
During Ruby’s stay, Anne does her best to comfort her, sharing stories and offering friendship. The girls bake food together and take it to the boys, providing an opportunity for Ruby to see Gilbert. Despite a minor argument between Anne and Billy Andrews, the experience allows Ruby to appreciate Anne’s kindness and begin to see beyond the prejudices of Avonlea society.
Marilla’s Shifting Perspective
Throughout the episode, Marilla’s perspective on Anne gradually evolves. Initially, Marilla is frustrated by Anne’s defiance and unconventional behavior, struggling to understand her imaginative nature and strong-willed spirit. However, as the episode progresses, Marilla witnesses Anne’s bravery, resourcefulness, and genuine desire for friendship.
Marilla’s decision to allow Anne to make her own choice about school, albeit influenced by Rachel Lynde’s advice, demonstrates a growing trust in Anne’s judgment. Furthermore, Marilla’s concern for Anne’s well-being during the fire and her pride in Anne’s heroism reveal a deepening emotional connection between the two.
Themes and Analysis
“An Inward Treasure Born” explores several key themes, including:
- The Power of Imagination: Anne’s imagination serves as both a refuge from hardship and a source of creativity and joy. The episode highlights the importance of embracing one’s imagination, even in the face of societal pressures to conform.
- The Impact of Bullying: The episode portrays the damaging effects of bullying and social exclusion on Anne’s self-esteem and her willingness to engage with the community. It underscores the importance of kindness, acceptance, and standing up against prejudice.
- Gender Roles and Expectations: The minister’s outdated advice reflects the restrictive gender roles prevalent in the late 19th century. Anne’s rejection of these expectations and her determination to pursue her own path challenge traditional norms and advocate for female empowerment.
- The Meaning of Home and Belonging: Anne’s journey to find a sense of home and belonging is central to the series. The episode demonstrates how acts of bravery and kindness can lead to acceptance and integration into a community.
- The Evolution of Relationships: The episode showcases the evolving relationships between Anne and Marilla, Anne and Diana, and Anne and the Avonlea community. It highlights the importance of understanding, empathy, and forgiveness in building strong connections.
Conclusion
Episode 4 of “Anne with an E” is a pivotal episode that explores Anne’s resilience, her struggle for acceptance, and the gradual shift in the community’s perception of her. Through acts of bravery and kindness, Anne begins to win over the hearts of the Avonlea residents, forging meaningful connections and finding a sense of belonging. The episode also highlights the importance of imagination, challenging gender roles, and standing up against bullying, reinforcing the series’ themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of the human spirit.
