Anne of Green Gables: Chapter 1 – “Marilla Cuthbert Is Surprised” Study
Guide
This chapter introduces the central conflict of the story and establishes key themes. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the stage for Anne's arrival at Green Gables and the challenges (and joys) she will bring.
Themes / Big Ideas
Expectation vs. Reality: The Cuthberts expect a boy to help with the farm, but receive Anne instead. This highlights how life rarely goes according to plan and the importance of adapting to unexpected circumstances.
The Power of Imagination: Anne's rich inner world, her renaming herself Cordelia and imagining the “White Way of Delight,” demonstrates the importance of imagination as a coping mechanism and source of joy.
Belonging & Acceptance: Anne desperately craves a home and family, feeling unwanted and alone. The chapter explores the fundamental human need for belonging and the pain of rejection.
Prejudice & First Impressions: Marilla’s initial disapproval of Anne based on her gender and appearance illustrates the dangers of judging others prematurely.
The Importance of Kindness: Matthew’s quiet sympathy towards Anne foreshadows the potential for compassion and understanding that will shape her future.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition
|
|---------------|----------------|----------------------------------------------|
| Ejaculated | Verb | Uttered suddenly and exclamatorily |
| Wretchedly | Adverb | In a deeply unhappy or miserable state |
| Animation | Noun | The quality of being full of life or spirit |
| Deprecatingly | Adverb | Expressing disapproval or regret |
| Lamely | Adverb | Weakly or unconvincingly |
| Tragical | Adjective | Extremely sad; causing great suffering
|
| Rusty | Adjective | Deteriorated or unused |
| Mellowed | Verb | Softened or made more gentle |
| Unsympathetic | Adjective | Lacking in sympathy or concern |
| Fiddlesticks | Interjection | A nonsense exclamation; used to express disbelief |
| Distinguishable| Adjective | Clearly different or easily recognized |
| Reconcile | Verb | To restore friendly relations |
| Abundance | Noun | A very large quantity |
| Reproachfully | Adverb | In a way that expresses disapproval or disappointment |
| Skimpy | Adjective | Insufficiently small or meager |
| Perturbation | Noun | A state of anxiety or distress |
| Despatched | Verb | Sent off quickly |
| Kettled of fish | Idiom | A difficult or complicated situation |
Quotes to Look For
“Marilla Cuthbert, who’s that?” “Where is the boy?”: This opening dialogue immediately establishes the central conflict and Marilla’s rigid expectations.
“You don’t want me!” she cried. “You don’t want me because I’m not a boy! … Oh, what shall I do? I’m going to burst into tears!”: This quote reveals Anne's vulnerability and her deep-seated fear of rejection.
“Well, don’t cry any more. We’re not going to turn you out-of-doors tonight.”: This is a small act of kindness from Marilla that offers Anne temporary relief and hope.
“Call you Cordelia? Is that your name?” “No-o-o, it’s not exactly my name, but I would love to be called Cordelia. It’s such a perfectly elegant name.”: This quote showcases Anne's imagination and her desire for beauty and refinement.
“A-n-n looks dreadful, but A-n-n-e looks so much more distinguished.”: This illustrates Anne’s unique perspective and her attention to detail.
“She’s just referring to some conversation we had on the road,” said Matthew hastily. “I’m going out to put the mare in, Marilla.”: This shows Matthew's attempt to protect Anne and smooth over her unusual behavior.
“I can’t eat when you are in the depths of despair.” “I’ve never been in the depths of despair, so I can’t say,” responded Marilla. This highlights the contrast between Anne's emotional intensity and Marilla’s practicality.
“Well, now, she’s a real interesting little thing,” persisted Matthew. “You should have heard her talk coming from the station.”: This reveals Matthew’s growing affection for Anne.
“I believe that child has bewitched you!”: Marilla’s suspicion of Anne and her concern over Matthew's changing attitude.
“She’d be company for you.” “I’m not suffering for company,” said Marilla shortly. This shows Marilla's independent nature and her resistance to change.
“And up-stairs, in the east gable, a lonely, heart-hungry, friendless child cried herself to sleep.”: This final image emphasizes Anne’s isolation and the uncertain future that awaits her.