Anne of Green Gables: "Vanity and Vexation of Spirit" - Study Guide
This study guide focuses on the chapter "Vanity and Vexation of Spirit" from Anne of Green Gables. It will help you understand the key themes, vocabulary, and important quotes within this pivotal chapter.
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter explores several interconnected themes central to the novel:
Appearance vs. Reality: Anne's obsession with her red hair and subsequent attempt to change it highlights the societal pressure to conform to beauty standards. The chapter demonstrates how outward appearance can be deceiving and that true worth lies beyond physical attributes.
Vanity & Pride: Anne's desire to have raven-black hair stems from vanity and a sense of inadequacy. The chapter illustrates the dangers of prioritizing superficial qualities over inner character.
Consequences of Actions: Anne's impulsive decision to dye her hair leads to significant distress and a humbling experience. This emphasizes the importance of considering the potential repercussions of one's choices.
Forgiveness & Acceptance: Marilla’s evolving attitude towards Anne, despite her missteps, showcases the power of forgiveness and acceptance. The chapter also explores Anne’s own journey towards self-acceptance, even with her flaws.
The Importance of Honesty: Anne's deception (however well-intentioned) regarding the hair dye leads to a greater problem. The chapter subtly emphasizes the value of truthfulness.
Growth & Maturity: While a setback, Anne's experience with the hair dye ultimately contributes to her emotional and personal growth. She learns a valuable lesson about self-worth and the futility of chasing unrealistic ideals.
The Nature of Discipline: Marilla’s approach to discipline is firm but ultimately rooted in love and a desire for Anne's well-being. The chapter explores the balance between correction and understanding.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---------------|----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Subjective | Adjective | Based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions. |
| Consciousness | Noun | Awareness of one's surroundings and thoughts. |
| Coruscations | Noun | Sparkling or gleaming lights; flashes. |
| Vexation | Noun | The state of being annoyed, frustrated, or worried. |
| Grimly | Adverb | In a stern or forbidding manner. |
| Vim | Noun | Energy, enthusiasm, or liveliness. |
| Tomfoolery | Noun | Foolish or frivolous behavior. |
| Riled | Adjective | Annoyed or irritated. |
| Implicitly | Adverb | Fully and completely; without reservation. |
| Veracity | Noun | Truthfulness; honesty. |
| Impeached | Verb | To challenge the integrity or validity of. |
| Trice | Noun | An instant; a very short time. |
| Repent | Verb | To feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one's wrongdoing. |
| Scrutinizingly | Adverb | Examining or inspecting closely and thoroughly. |
| Grotesque | Adjective | Strangely or abnormally ugly or misshapen. |
| Dejectedly | Adverb | In a sad and depressed manner. |
| Warranted | Verb | Guaranteed or assured to be of a certain quality. |
| Shingle | Verb | To cut (hair) short and evenly. |
| Virtuous | Adjective | Having or showing high moral standards. |
Quotes to Look For
These quotes highlight key moments and themes within the chapter:
“She’s just got to be pulled up short and sudden on this sort of thing. I don’t care if Mrs. Allan does say she’s the brightest and sweetest child she ever knew.” – Marilla's initial frustration with Anne’s perceived lack of responsibility. This shows her struggle to reconcile Anne’s positive qualities with her troublesome behavior.
“Matthew had come in and was waiting patiently for his tea in his corner, having learned by experience that she got through with whatever work was on hand much quicker if not delayed by untimely argument.” – This illustrates Matthew’s understanding of Marilla and his quiet support.
“‘I little know how you got into this fix, but I mean to find out.’” – Marilla’s determination to understand the situation despite her initial anger.
“‘But I didn’t mean to dye it green, Marilla,’ protested Anne dejectedly. ‘If I was wicked I meant to be wicked to some purpose.’” – Anne’s attempt to justify her actions and the unintended consequences.
“‘Oh, Marilla, you little know how utterly wretched I am.’ ‘Yes, it’s green,’ moaned Anne. ‘I thought nothing could be as bad as red hair. But now I know it’s ten times worse to have green hair.” – Anne's dramatic reaction to the dyed hair, showcasing her intense feelings about her appearance.
“‘I’ll never, never look at myself again until my hair grows.’” – Anne's initial despair and self-loathing.
“‘I’ll look at myself every time I come to my room and see how ugly I am. And I won’t try to imagine it away, either.’” – Anne's shift towards self-acceptance and a willingness to confront her flaws.
“‘I didn’t say anything when Josie said that to me,’ Anne confided that evening to Marilla, ‘because I thought it was part of my punishment and I ought to bear it patiently.’” – Anne's growing maturity and ability to accept consequences.
“‘I mean to devote all my energies to being good after this and I shall never try to be beautiful again.’” – Anne’s resolution to prioritize inner character over outward appearance.
“‘My head is better now. It was terrible bad this afternoon, though. These headaches of mine are getting worse and worse.’” – A subtle foreshadowing of Marilla’s health concerns.
This study guide should help you analyze the complexities of this chapter and understand its significance within the broader narrative of Anne of Green Gables.