Anne of Green Gables: Chapter 1 - "Matthew Cuthbert Is Surprised" Study
Guide
This study guide will help you understand the key elements of Chapter 1, focusing on themes, vocabulary, and important quotes.
Themes / Big Ideas
Expectation vs. Reality: The entire chapter revolves around the miscommunication regarding Matthew’s expected arrival – a boy instead of a girl. This sets up a central theme of how our expectations can be challenged and changed by unforeseen circumstances.
The Power of Imagination: Anne’s vivid imagination is immediately apparent and a defining characteristic. The chapter highlights how she uses it to cope with loneliness, create joy, and find beauty in the world around her.
Belonging & Home: Anne’s longing for a home and family is deeply felt. The chapter explores the emotional significance of finding a place to belong, even when it’s unexpected.
First Impressions & Judgement: Matthew's initial apprehension towards women and his quick judgements about Anne demonstrate the potential for misinterpreting others.
The Beauty of Nature: The detailed descriptions of the Prince Edward Island landscape emphasize its beauty and how it impacts Anne’s spirit. Nature provides solace, inspiration, and a sense of wonder.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---------------|----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Sorrel | Adjective | Having a reddish-brown color. |
| Balsamy | Adjective | Fragrant; resembling balsam (a resinous tree). |
| Sundry | Adjective | Various; of different kinds. |
| Ungainly | Adjective | Awkward; clumsy in movement or appearance. |
| Rigidity | Noun | Stiffness; inflexibility. |
| Main | Adjective | Principal; most important. |
| Blankly | Adverb | In an empty or expressionless manner. |
| Brisk | Adjective | Active; energetic; quick. |
| Cope | Verb | To deal effectively with something difficult. |
| Jauntily | Adverb | In a cheerful and lively manner. |
| Ludicrously | Adverb | In a ridiculously or absurdly humorous way. |
| Garbed | Verb | Dressed; clothed. |
| Wincey | Noun | A coarse cotton fabric, often used for clothing. |
| Vivacity | Noun | Liveliness; spirit. |
| Pronounced | Adjective | Clearly defined or noticeable. |
| Discerning | Adjective | Having good judgment; perceptive. |
| Scrawny | Adjective | Thin and weak. |
| Rapport | Noun | A close and harmonious relationship. |
| Rapturously | Adverb | In a state of ecstatic delight. |
| Translucent | Adjective | Allowing light to pass through; clear. |
| Mellow | Adjective | Pleasant and gentle; soft. |
| Wistful | Adjective | Having or showing a feeling of vague or regretful longing. |
| Quenched | Verb | Satisfied; extinguished. |
| Shrinking | Verb | To draw back or contract in fear or discomfort. |
| Vantage | Noun | A position giving a good view; an advantage. |
| Rustling | Verb | Making a soft, whispering sound. |
Quotes to Look For
“The little birds sang as if it were / The one day of summer in all the year.” – This quote establishes a sense of idyllic beauty and foreshadows Anne’s appreciation for the natural world.
“She was sitting there waiting for something or somebody and, since sitting and waiting was the only thing to do just then, she sat and waited with all her might and main.” – This highlights Anne’s resilience and hopeful nature despite her uncertain situation.
“‘There was more scope for imagination,’ she said.” – This is a key quote revealing Anne’s coping mechanism and the importance of her inner world.
“I don’t understand,” said Matthew helplessly, wishing that Marilla was at hand to cope with the situation. – This demonstrates Matthew’s discomfort and reliance on Marilla.
“She had been watching him ever since he had passed her and she had her eyes on him now.” – This shows Anne’s observant nature and growing anticipation.
“A child of about eleven…no commonplace soul inhabited the body of this stray woman-child.” – This quote foreshadows Anne’s unique personality and potential.
“I suppose you are Mr. Matthew Cuthbert of Green Gables?” she said in a peculiarly clear, sweet voice. – This introduces Anne’s directness and polite manner.
“I can imagine that I have a beautiful rose-leaf complexion and lovely starry violet eyes.” – This exemplifies Anne’s powerful imagination.
“It’s always been one of my dreams to live near a brook.” – This reveals Anne's deep longing for a home and connection with nature.
“Oh, it seems as if I must be in a dream.” – This quote captures Anne’s overwhelming joy and disbelief at finding Green Gables.
“Listen to the trees talking in their sleep,” she whispered, “What nice dreams they must have!” – This showcases Anne’s whimsical and empathetic nature.
This study guide should help you analyze the key elements of Chapter 1 and prepare for further discussion about Anne of Green Gables. Remember to pay attention to the symbolism, character development, and overall tone of the chapter.