Anne of Green Gables: "The Hotel Concert" - Study Guide
This study guide will help you analyze the themes, vocabulary, and key quotes from Chapter 8 of Anne of Green Gables, “The Hotel Concert.”
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter builds on several core themes present throughout the novel. Consider how these are explored:
- The Power of Imagination & Dreams: Anne’s internal world, her dreams for her room and future, are contrasted with reality. The chapter shows how she adapts these dreams while still finding joy in what is.
- Social Class & Acceptance: The stark contrast between Anne’s upbringing and the wealth/sophistication of the hotel guests highlights issues of social class. Anne's initial insecurity and eventual triumph demonstrate her inherent worth regardless of material possessions.
- Self-Acceptance & Identity: Anne struggles with feeling “rustic” and inadequate compared to the other girls. Her ultimate confidence comes from embracing her own unique qualities, even her “Titian hair.”
- The Importance of Home & Belonging: Green Gables is presented as a sanctuary for Anne. Her anxiety about leaving and her longing to return emphasize the importance of home in providing security and happiness.
- The Value of Simple Pleasures: Despite the allure of wealth, Anne ultimately finds greater joy in the natural beauty around her and the love she receives from Matthew and Diana.
- The Growth of Confidence: Anne's journey throughout the chapter is one of growing confidence. She overcomes her stage fright and earns recognition for her talent, demonstrating her personal development.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| organdy | noun | a thin, sheer cotton fabric |
| pallid | adjective | pale; lacking color |
| luster | noun | a soft glow or sheen |
| burnished | adjective | polished; gleaming |
| conniving | verb | secretly scheming or conspiring |
| art muslin | noun | a lightweight cotton fabric often used for curtains |
| brocade | noun | rich, thick silk or velvet fabric with raised designs |
| tapestry | noun | a heavy woven fabric with pictorial or decorative designs |
| befrilled | adjective | decorated with frills |
| quaint | adjective | attractively unusual or old-fashioned |
| epoch | noun | a particular period of time in history or a person's life |
| athrill | adjective | filled with excitement |
| gratified | adjective | pleased or satisfied |
| gadding | verb | wandering about in a frivolous way |
| vivacious | adjective | lively and animated |
| sentimental | adjective | having or expressing feelings of tenderness, nostalgia, or affection |
| elocutionist | noun | a person skilled in public speaking |
| rapt | adjective | completely fascinated or absorbed |
| languidly | adverb | in a slow and relaxed manner; without energy or enthusiasm |
| scrutinize | verb | examine closely and critically |
| dilate | verb | become wider, larger, or more open |
| incited | verb | encourage or stir up (violent, angry, or enthusiastic feeling in someone) |
| limpid | adjective | clear and transparent |
Quotes to Look For & Analyze
- “Put on your white organdy, by all means, Anne,” advised Diana decidedly. – What does this quote reveal about Diana’s role in Anne's life? How does it set the tone for the chapter?
- “Changes had crept in, Marilla conniving at them resignedly, until it was as sweet and dainty a nest as a young girl could desire.” – How does this quote show the evolving relationship between Anne and Marilla? What does it suggest about Marilla’s hidden affection for Anne?
- “It was an epoch in her life, and she was deliciously athrill with the excitement of it.” – What does this quote tell us about Anne’s personality and her capacity for joy?
- “She wished herself back in the white room at Green Gables.” – What does this reveal about Anne’s need for a sense of belonging and security?
- “She would not fail before Gilbert Blythe—he should never be able to laugh at her, never, never!” – What motivates Anne’s sudden burst of confidence? How does this quote highlight her pride and determination?
- “I’m quite content to be Anne of Green Gables, with my string of pearl beads. I know Matthew gave me as much love with them as ever went with Madame the Pink Lady’s jewels.” – What is the central message of this quote? How does it encapsulate the themes of happiness and contentment in the chapter?
- “We are rich,” said Anne staunchly. “Why, we have sixteen years to our credit, and we’re happy as queens, and we’ve all got imaginations, more or less.” – How does Anne redefine the meaning of “rich” in this quote? What values are being emphasized here?
- “There was just one on my bush, and I saved it for you.” – What does this small gesture reveal about Diana’s friendship with Anne?
These quotes should help you delve deeper into the meaning of the chapter and understand its significance within the larger narrative of Anne of Green Gables. Consider how these quotes connect to the themes and vocabulary discussed above.