Anne of Green Gables · Chapter
Marilla Makes Up Her Mind explained
Marilla and Anne visit Mrs.
What happens
Marilla and Anne visit Mrs. Spencer to rectify the mistake about wanting a boy. Mrs. Blewett offers to take Anne, but Marilla, moved by Anne's distress and Matthew's silent wish, decides to keep her at Green Gables.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
This is the story's dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of Anne’s crisis:…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Belonging and Home
Anne's desperate desire for a permanent home contrasts with the threat of being sent to Mrs. Blewett.
- Morality and Redemption
Marilla's moral qualms about handing Anne to a harsh woman lead her to choose compassion.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Anxious and hopeful as her fate is debated; pleads to stay at Green Gables.
- Marilla Cuthbert
Struggles with the decision but ultimately chooses to keep Anne, moved by compassion.
- Matthew Cuthbert
Quietly supports keeping Anne; his relief is evident when Marilla brings her back.
- Mrs. Alexander Spencer
Explains the misunderstanding and suggests Mrs. Blewett as an alternative.
- Mrs. Peter Blewett
Eager to take Anne as a helper; her harsh demeanor repels Marilla.
Key passages
“I wouldn't give a dog I liked to that Blewett woman.”
Matthew strongly opposes sending Anne to Mrs. Blewett.
Shows Matthew's protective feelings toward Anne.
“I'll try to do and be anything you want me, if you'll only keep me.”
Anne promises to comply with Marilla's wishes in exchange for a home.
Highlights Anne's vulnerability and willingness to adapt.
