Anne of Green Gables: Chapter Study Guide - "A Solemn Vow and Promise"
This guide will help you understand the key elements of Chapter 5, "A Solemn Vow and Promise," focusing on themes, vocabulary, and important quotes.
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter deeply explores several core themes of Anne of Green Gables:
Acceptance & Belonging: Anne desperately seeks acceptance and a friend. Her anxiety about meeting Diana highlights her fear of rejection and her longing for connection. The chapter centers around Anne finding a kindred spirit in Diana, marking the beginning of her sense of belonging.
Imagination vs. Reality: Anne's vivid imagination often clashes with the practical world, as seen in her flower hat and elaborate "oaths." This tension is a recurring theme throughout the novel. Marilla represents practicality, while Anne embodies imagination.
Social Expectations & Conformity: Marilla is concerned with how Anne will be perceived by the community (Mrs. Lynde, Mrs. Barry). This chapter shows the pressure to conform and the consequences of not meeting societal norms.
The Power of Friendship: The chapter demonstrates the transformative power of friendship, offering Anne emotional support and happiness. The "solemn vow" symbolizes the importance she places on this connection.
Finding Joy in Simple Things: Despite her anxieties, Anne finds immense joy in small things like flowers, chocolate sweeties, and the prospect of a playmate.
The Importance of Kindness & Generosity: Anne's willingness to share her chocolate sweeties with Diana demonstrates her kind heart and generous spirit. Marilla recognizes this as a positive trait.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition
|
|---------------|----------------|----------------------------------------------|
| Aggravating | Adjective | Annoying; irritating |
| Dubious | Adjective | Doubtful; questionable |
| Concrete | Adjective | Real; tangible |
| Abstract | Adjective | Existing in thought or as an idea, not physical |
| Rigged out | Verb Phrase | Dressed up; adorned |
| Vexed | Adjective | Annoyed; irritated |
| Asylum | Noun | A hospital for people with mental illnesses |
| Consumption | Noun | (historical) Tuberculosis |
| Tremulous | Adjective | Shaking; trembling |
| Fraught | Adjective | Filled with or accompanied by something |
| Bowery | Adjective | Abundant with trees; shaded |
| Poring | Verb | Reading or studying intently |
| Aiding and abetting | Verb Phrase | Supporting; encouraging |
| Soulful | Adjective | Expressive of deep emotion |
| Coincidence | Noun | A remarkable concurrence of events |
| Deprecatory | Adjective | Expressing disapproval or regret |
| Rub it in | Verb Phrase | Emphasize something to annoy someone |
Quotes to Look For
“You are the most aggravating child!” – Marilla. This quote highlights Marilla’s frustration with Anne's unconventional behavior and her struggle to understand her.
“Oh, I’m so sorry,” said Anne, tears welling into her eyes. “I never thought you’d mind… I’m afraid I’m going to be a dreadful trial to you. Maybe you’d better send me back to the asylum.” – Anne. This quote reveals Anne's deep insecurity and her fear of being unwanted, as well as her tendency towards dramatic pronouncements.
“Now, don’t get into a fluster. And I do wish you wouldn’t use such long words. It sounds so funny in a little girl.” – Marilla. This quote demonstrates Marilla’s practicality and her expectation of conventional behavior from Anne.
“I solemnly swear to be faithful to my bosom friend, Diana Barry, as long as the sun and moon shall endure.” – Anne. This quote showcases Anne’s romantic imagination and her earnest desire for a deep, lasting friendship.
“You’re a queer girl, Anne. I heard before that you were queer. But I believe I’m going to like you real well.” – Diana. This quote is significant because it acknowledges Anne’s differences but also expresses acceptance and affection.
“I will say it for the child,” said Marilla when Anne had gone to her gable, “she isn’t stingy. I’m glad, for of all faults I detest stinginess in a child.” – Marilla. This quote reveals Marilla’s growing affection for Anne and her appreciation of her positive qualities.
“I can’t imagine the place without her.” – Marilla. This quote is a pivotal moment, showing Marilla’s complete acceptance of Anne into her life and home.
This chapter is crucial for understanding the development of Anne’s character, her relationship with Marilla, and the importance of friendship in her life. Pay attention to how Anne’s imagination shapes her interactions with the world and how Marilla gradually learns to appreciate her unique qualities.