Episode 12 of “Anne Shirley,” part of the “Anne of Avonlea” arc, introduces a delightful yet challenging dynamic to Green Gables with the arrival of orphaned twins, Davy and Dora Keith. Marilla’s decision to take in her third cousins marks a significant shift, revealing her growing warmth and capacity for love, largely influenced by her experience with Anne. This episode explores themes of family, acceptance, and the different ways children seek attention and affection.
Davy and Dora Arrive
The episode centers around the arrival of Davy and Dora, Marilla’s orphaned third cousins. Davy, in particular, is portrayed as a mischievous and impish character, a stark contrast to his well-behaved twin sister, Dora. Davy’s antics quickly disrupt the tranquility of Green Gables, testing the patience of both Anne and Marilla.
Davy’s Quest for Attention
Davy’s behavior is driven by a deep-seated need for attention and affection. Having recently lost his parents, he’s insecure and yearns to be noticed. His repeated questions about Paul Irving, Anne’s “angelic” student, highlight his desire to emulate someone Anne admires, but also his fear of not measuring up. When Anne compares Davy to Paul, Davy sees Paul as a rival. He acts the opposite of Paul, hoping to be noticed by his new big sister, but he’s equally afraid that his behavior will make Anne (and Marilla) mad at him. He doesn’t quite know how to act, and so he acts out.
Anne’s Maturing Role
Anne finds herself in a new role as a mentor and guide to Davy. She draws upon her own experiences as a child, recalling her past mishaps and how Matthew and Marilla’s patience and love helped her grow. Anne empathizes with Davy’s need for attention, recognizing that his misbehavior stems from a place of insecurity and a desire to connect. This episode showcases Anne’s growth and maturity, as she applies the lessons she has learned to help Davy navigate his own challenges. She is now the one providing the support and understanding she once needed.
Marilla’s Softening Heart
Marilla’s willingness to take in the twins is a testament to her evolving character. Before Anne, it’s unlikely she would have considered such a thing. Her interactions with Davy, despite his troublesome nature, demonstrate her newfound patience and capacity for love. She is more lenient and understanding than Rachel Lynde would be, for example.
Contrasting Adaptations
Adaptations sometimes omit certain elements. This episode of “Anne Shirley” notably alters the ending from the original book. The anime omits a potentially problematic remark from Marilla about Davy needing a spanking. This change reflects modern sensibilities and avoids undermining the episode’s focus on understanding and addressing the root causes of Davy’s behavior.
Themes
- Family: The episode emphasizes the evolving definition of family.
- Acceptance: Marilla’s decision to take in the twins highlights the theme of acceptance.
- The need for attention: Davy’s behavior underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing children’s emotional needs.
- Patience and understanding: The episode reinforces the value of patience and understanding in guiding children through difficult times.
- Growth and maturity: Anne’s role as a mentor showcases her personal growth and maturity, as she applies the lessons she has learned to help others.
Points of Discussion
- How does Davy’s behavior compare to Anne’s childhood antics?
- How has Anne’s presence changed Marilla’s outlook on life and family?
- What challenges do Anne and Marilla face in raising Davy and Dora?
- How does the episode address the theme of seeking attention?
- What does this episode reveal about the evolving nature of family?
Conclusion
Episode 12 of “Anne Shirley” is a heartwarming and insightful exploration of family dynamics, the challenges of raising children, and the transformative power of love and acceptance. The introduction of Davy and Dora adds a new layer of complexity to Green Gables, while Anne’s evolving role as a mentor highlights her remarkable growth and maturity. This episode reinforces the importance of understanding children’s emotional needs and providing them with the patience and support they need to thrive.
