Episode 11 of Anne Shirley, titled “I’d Like to Add Some Beauty to Life,” marks a significant turning point in Anne’s journey. This episode, which adapts material from Anne of Avonlea, sees Anne stepping into the role of a teacher at Avonlea School, a dream she has long cherished. The episode beautifully encapsulates the challenges and triumphs of a first-year teacher, while also exploring themes of community, friendship, and personal growth.
A Dream Realized: Anne as Miss Shirley
Anne’s aspiration to become a teacher finally comes to fruition in this episode. Gilbert Blythe, who was initially slated for the position at Avonlea, decides to take a teaching post at White Sands and recommends Anne for Avonlea School. This act of generosity and friendship sets the stage for Anne’s new chapter.
First Day Jitters
Anne’s first days as Miss Shirley are portrayed with a relatable awkwardness. From managing a classroom full of diverse personalities to balancing discipline with effective teaching, Anne faces the universal challenges of a novice educator. As one source notes, “If there’s one truth about being a first-year teacher, it’s that you always want students like Paul Irving but end up with students like Anthony Pye.” Despite these hurdles, Anne’s passion and unique approach to teaching begin to shine through.
Familiar Faces and New Challenges
The episode also introduces viewers to the dynamics of Anne’s classroom, filled with both familiar faces and new students. While some students, like Paul Irving, may be eager to learn, others present challenges to Anne’s classroom management skills. Navigating these diverse personalities becomes a crucial part of Anne’s growth as a teacher.
Avonlea Village Improvement Society (A.V.I.S.)
Beyond the classroom, Anne channels her energy into the Avonlea Village Improvement Society (A.V.I.S.). The A.V.I.S. represents Anne’s desire to contribute to her community and bring beauty and progress to Avonlea.
Expanding Anne’s World
The formation of A.V.I.S. expands Anne’s social circle and introduces her to new facets of Avonlea society. As Anne transitions into adulthood, her world broadens beyond Green Gables and the schoolhouse, encompassing the wider community and its various personalities.
Friendship and Community
Through A.V.I.S., Anne and Diana embark on adventures, visiting neighbors and seeking donations for village improvements. These interactions highlight the importance of community and the power of collective effort in making a positive impact.
Anne and Gilbert: A Budding Friendship
Episode 11 further develops the evolving relationship between Anne and Gilbert. With Gilbert’s return to Avonlea, their dynamic shifts from rivalry to a supportive friendship.
Reconciliation and Vows
After Gilbert’s selfless act of recommending Anne for the teaching position, Anne rushes to thank him. Their reconciliation by the lake marks a turning point in their relationship, with both vowing to become the best of friends. This scene is significant as it lays the foundation for a deeper connection between the two characters.
Unspoken Feelings
While Anne may not be consciously aware of her romantic feelings for Gilbert, the episode hints at the underlying chemistry between them. As one source observes, “Gilbert may not be exactly pining over Anne anymore – after all, he gets to interact with her regularly – but the way he looks at her says it all.” The subtle nuances in their interactions suggest that Gilbert’s feelings for Anne remain strong, even if unspoken.
Marilla: Embracing Change
Marilla’s character also undergoes development in this episode, as she grapples with change and adjusts to Anne’s growing independence.
A New Chapter Together
With Anne deciding to remain at Green Gables and take on the role of a teacher, Marilla embraces a new chapter in her life alongside Anne. The episode portrays the deepening bond between the two women as they navigate the challenges and joys of their shared life.
Trust and Acceptance
Marilla’s growing trust in Anne is evident in her support of Anne’s endeavors, both in and out of the classroom. As Marilla witnesses Anne’s positive influence on the community, she further accepts Anne as a beloved member of the family.
Themes and Significance
Episode 11 of Anne Shirley explores several key themes that resonate throughout the series:
- Community: The episode emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the positive impact individuals can have when working together.
- Friendship: The evolving relationships between Anne, Diana, and Gilbert highlight the significance of friendship, support, and understanding.
- Personal Growth: Anne’s journey as a first-year teacher and community organizer showcases her personal growth, resilience, and determination to make a difference.
- The Dawning of Adulthood: The episode marks Anne’s functional entry into adulthood as a working woman in Avonlea, with the expectations for her socially beginning to shift.
Conclusion
“I’d Like to Add Some Beauty to Life” is a pivotal episode in Anne Shirley, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Anne’s life. As she embarks on her teaching career and embraces community involvement, Anne’s character continues to evolve, inspiring viewers with her passion, creativity, and unwavering spirit. The episode sets the stage for future storylines, promising further exploration of Anne’s relationships, ambitions, and personal growth as she navigates the complexities of adulthood in Avonlea.
