Anne to the Rescue: Study Guide
This guide will help you understand the key elements of "Anne to the Rescue" and how it contributes to the larger themes of Anne of Green Gables.
Themes / Big Ideas
The Interconnectedness of Things: The chapter title itself highlights this theme. Small events (Anne and Matthew keeping house) can have significant consequences, influenced by larger happenings (the Premier’s tour). This emphasizes the idea that everything is connected.
Finding Joy in Simple Things: Despite challenges (geometry, Minnie May’s illness), Anne finds happiness and wonder in the everyday – a frosty morning, a new book, the kindness of others.
The Power of Imagination & Storytelling: Anne’s rich inner world allows her to cope with difficulties and find meaning in experiences. Her dramatic narration transforms ordinary events into something special.
Kindness & Compassion: Anne’s selfless act of caring for Minnie May demonstrates her empathy and willingness to help others. This highlights the importance of community and responsibility.
Social Expectations & Gender Roles: The chapter touches on expectations around women’s roles (politics, courtship) and Anne's developing understanding of these norms.
The Importance of Friendship: The reconciliation with Diana is a central event, showcasing the value of forgiveness and enduring bonds.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition
|
|---------------|----------------|----------------------------------------------|
| sundry | adjective | various; several |
| warranted | verb | guaranteed |
| triumph | noun | a victory or success |
| doze | verb | to sleep lightly |
| kindred | adjective | similar in nature; closely related |
| comprehend | verb | to understand |
| Grit | noun | a member of a political party (Liberal) |
| Conservative | noun | a member of a political party |
| estranged | adjective | alienated; separated in affection or trust |
| ethereal | adjective | extremely delicate and light |
| irradiated | verb | shining brightly; glowing |
| dignified | adjective | having or showing a composed or serious manner |
| mantle | noun | covering; cloak |
Quotes to Look For
"ALL things great are wound up with all things little." – This is the central idea of the chapter and a key theme in the book. Pay attention to how this plays out throughout the story.
“I’m sure I’d get on better with geometry if only he wouldn’t change the letters…I don’t think a teacher should take such a mean advantage, do you?” – This quote reveals Anne’s frustration with learning and her tendency to personalize challenges.
“You see before you a perfectly happy person, Marilla.” – This demonstrates Anne’s ability to find joy even in difficult circumstances.
“Matthew and I are such kindred spirits I can read his thoughts without words at all.” – This highlights the special bond between Anne and Matthew.
“I know exactly what to do for croup…They all had croup regularly.” – This shows Anne’s resourcefulness and the value of her experiences.
“You must just imagine my relief, doctor, because I can’t express it in words. You know there are some things that cannot be expressed in words.” – This illustrates Anne’s emotional depth and her difficulty articulating her feelings.
“I feel fearfully embarrassed, Marilla, but I just said as politely as I could, ‘I have no hard feelings for you, Mrs. Barry. I assure you once for all that I did not mean to intoxicate Diana and henceforth I shall cover the past with the mantle of oblivion.’” – This quote showcases Anne’s maturity and her ability to handle a difficult situation with grace.
“I’ll never laugh when they use big words. I know from sorrowful experience how that hurts one’s feelings.” – This demonstrates Anne's empathy and growth as a character.