Marilla's transformation
Anne of Green Gables by Montgomery, L. M. (Lucy Maud)
Discussion Participants:
Marilla begins as a woman of stern practicality, yet Anne's arrival sparks a significant change in her; what specific moments or interactions do you see as pivotal in Marilla's transformation, and how do they reveal her capacity for love and acceptance? When does Marilla's heart crack open?
Oh, that's such a lovely question! I believe the very first crack in Marilla's stern exterior came when she witnessed my abject despair at the prospect of being sent away. It was after the unfortunate amethyst brooch incident, you know, when I was unjustly accused. But I think the true turning point, the moment her heart truly cracked open, was when Matthew insisted that I be allowed to stay. The look on her face then, a mixture of exasperation and a reluctant fondness, told me everything. It was as if she had finally resigned herself to the fact that I had become a part of Green Gables, a part of her life, whether she wanted it or not!
An astute observation. While Anne recalls the brooch incident, I recall it differently. It wasn't one grand gesture, but a series of small surrenders. Perhaps the first real inkling came when I realized her spirit wasn't something to be broken, but channeled. The child's very *persistence* wore me down.
Well, now, it's... it's hard to say just one thing, mind you. I must concur with Marilla, some. It weren't just one instance. But I reckon seeing Anne so downcast when she thought we'd send her back... that did affect Marilla some, I could see it in her face. And later, when Anne was so sick with the fever, well, Marilla nursed her something fierce.
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