Episode 10 of Anne Shirley, or the Season Finale of Anne With an E (depending on the adaptation), marks a poignant turning point in Anne’s life. It’s an episode filled with emotional farewells, unexpected revelations, and the bittersweet acceptance of change, perfectly encapsulating the themes of love, loss, and finding one’s place in the world that define the Anne of Green Gables narrative. This pivotal episode sees Anne on the cusp of a new chapter, ready to embrace her future while grappling with the inevitable heartaches that come with growth and change.
A Fond Farewell to Avonlea?
As Anne prepares to leave Avonlea for Redmond College , the episode focuses on her last days at Green Gables. The narrative underscores the deep connections she has forged with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, and with her kindred spirit, Diana Barry. These relationships, built on love, understanding, and mutual respect, have shaped Anne into the confident and compassionate young woman she has become.
The episode highlights Anne’s emotional maturity as she processes her feelings about leaving home. She expresses her gratitude and love for the Cuthberts, acknowledging the profound impact they have had on her life. In turn, Marilla and Matthew express their pride in Anne’s accomplishments and their unwavering support for her dreams. These heartfelt exchanges underscore the strength of their bond and the enduring nature of their family.
Matthew’s Health and Heartfelt Words
However, her departure is not without its shadows. Matthew’s declining health casts a pall over the proceedings. His quiet strength has always been a source of stability for Anne, and her concern for his well-being is palpable. In a touching moment, Anne expresses her worries to Matthew, acknowledging the burdens she may have inadvertently placed upon him. Matthew reassures her, telling her she was always meant to be his girl, solidifying their unique and unbreakable bond.
Some adaptations, particularly the anime series, add another layer of tragedy. Matthew collapses and dies after learning the bank savings have collapsed, leaving Marilla in a tough spot financially . This sudden and unexpected loss underscores the fragility of life and the inevitability of change.
Shirbert: A Long-Awaited Kiss
Episode 10 delivers the Shirbert moment fans have long awaited. After navigating misunderstandings and unspoken feelings, Anne and Gilbert finally confront their true emotions. This culminates in a passionate kiss , a symbolic representation of their deep connection and the promise of a future together.
However, their path is not without obstacles. Gilbert is set to attend school, and this new chapter in both of their lives includes a long-distance relationship. They both have personal goals and ambitions to work towards. Even in their first kiss, the story acknowledges this won’t be perfect or easy.
Diana’s Dreams
Diana also experiences a major turning point in Episode 10. After dealing with her life not being her own, and facing pressure to conform to her parents expectations, Diana receives word that her parents will allow her to attend Queen’s College . This allows her to pursue her own dreams and ambitions. Diana embracing who her Aunt Josephine is completely also plays a factor.
Diana’s storyline underscores the importance of female friendship and the power of women supporting each other.
Other Storylines
Several other storylines reach satisfying conclusions in Episode 10:
- Cole’s Journey: Cole finds a new home with Aunt Josephine, who offers him the love and acceptance he craves. This provides him with a safe space to express himself freely. This is where he can explore his artistic talents without judgment.
- Bash and Mary’s Relationship: After overcoming earlier challenges, Bash and Mary get married, starting a new chapter as a family. In some versions, Elijah, Mary’s son, is welcomed back into their lives, completing their family unit.
- Miss Stacy’s Vindication: Miss Stacy is allowed to remain as a teacher in Avonlea. The community finally recognizes the value of her progressive teaching methods and her dedication to her students.
Themes and Symbolism
Episode 10 of Anne Shirley is rich in thematic depth, exploring universal themes such as:
- Love and Loss: The episode poignantly portrays both the joy of love and the pain of loss. Anne experiences the fulfillment of her romantic desires with Gilbert, while simultaneously grappling with the fear of losing Matthew.
- Change and Growth: As Anne embarks on a new chapter in her life, she embraces the challenges and opportunities that come with change. She demonstrates resilience and adaptability as she navigates new environments and relationships.
- Finding One’s Place: Anne’s journey is ultimately about finding her place in the world. Through her experiences in Avonlea, she discovers her passions, her talents, and her sense of belonging.
Differences Between Adaptations
While the core themes and plot points remain consistent across different adaptations of Anne of Green Gables, there are subtle variations in how Episode 10 is portrayed.
- Some adaptations place a greater emphasis on the romantic relationship between Anne and Gilbert, while others focus more on Anne’s personal growth and her relationships with the Cuthberts.
- The portrayal of Matthew’s death also varies across adaptations. Some versions depict his passing as a peaceful and natural event, while others emphasize the suddenness and shock of his demise.
- The ending of the episode can also differ. Some adaptations conclude with Anne’s departure for Redmond College, while others show her making the difficult decision to stay in Avonlea and care for Marilla.
A Lasting Impact
Episode 10 of Anne Shirley is a powerful and moving conclusion to the first chapter of Anne’s life. It’s an episode that resonates with audiences of all ages. It celebrates the enduring power of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of finding one’s place in the world. Whether it’s the anime’s more tragic end with Matthew’s passing or Anne With an E’s focus on social issues, the episode remains a testament to the timeless appeal of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved story.
The episode leaves viewers with a sense of hope and optimism, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, new beginnings are always possible. As Anne embarks on her journey, we know that she will carry with her the lessons she has learned in Avonlea. She’ll cherish the love and support of her family and friends, and embrace the future with courage and determination.
