The Dawn of a New Era in Avonlea
Episode 13 of the classic 1979 animated series, Anne of Green Gables (Akage no Anne), titled “Anne Goes to School,” marks a significant turning point in Anne Shirley’s life as she embarks on her educational journey in Avonlea. Following the “brooch fiasco” from the previous episode, Anne and Marilla’s relationship has deepened, with Marilla beginning to appreciate Anne’s imaginative spirit and honesty.
The episode opens on a tranquil pre-dawn morning at Green Gables, with Matthew and Jerry preparing for the day’s harvest. Anne, however, is consumed by the excitement and nerves of her first day at the Avonlea school. Despite Marilla’s subtle concerns about Anne’s “weird character,” Anne is greatly cheered by the prospect of attending school alongside her kindred spirit, Diana Barry.
First Impressions and a Fateful Encounter
As Anne and Diana walk to school together, their path is filled with imaginative observations, including Anne’s desire to name a beautiful hollow “Violet Valley,” even if it doesn’t literally contain a million violets. This journey highlights Anne’s boundless imagination, which is a constant source of both joy and occasional misunderstanding.
Upon arriving at the school, Anne’s initial optimism faces its first challenge: the introduction to their cross teacher, Mr. Phillips. Mr. Phillips immediately singles out Anne, scolding her on her very first day for her chatter and perhaps her background as an orphan, asking if she is “the young girl that grew up in an orphanage in Nova Scotia”. This public chastisement is a stark contrast to the welcoming atmosphere Anne had imagined.
The “Carrots” Incident and Its Aftermath
The pivotal moment of the episode, and indeed a defining one in the Anne of Green Gables narrative, occurs with the return of Gilbert Blythe to the classroom. Gilbert, a handsome, smart, and witty classmate, is intrigued by the new, spirited girl who largely ignores his presence. In an attempt to garner Anne’s attention, he leans across the aisle, tweaks her red braid, and whispers “Carrots”.
Anne, incredibly sensitive about her red hair, is incensed by the taunt. In a fit of anger, she smashes her slate over Gilbert’s head. This dramatic act leads to further punishment from Mr. Phillips, who makes Anne sit next to Gilbert—a humiliation Anne finds unbearable.
Deeply mortified and upset, Anne vows never to forgive Gilbert Blythe and, at the end of the school day, she declares to Diana that she will never return to school. Upon returning to Green Gables, she informs Marilla of her decision. While Marilla initially sympathizes with Anne, the narrative suggests she will eventually allow Anne to stay home until she feels ready to return, acknowledging Anne’s strong feelings. The episode beautifully encapsulates Anne’s passionate nature, her fierce pride, and the beginning of a long, complicated relationship with Gilbert Blythe.
