Discussion Topic

Anne's personality and self-perception in "Anne of Green Gables."

Summary:

Anne is imaginative, talkative, and spirited, often getting lost in her fantasies. She perceives herself as plain and awkward due to her red hair and freckles but gradually gains confidence through her intelligence and determination. Anne's growth in self-perception is a central theme, as she learns to embrace her unique qualities and find her place in the world.

Expert Answers

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What does Anne consider good about herself in "Anne of Green Gables"?

Anne had the gift to be able to see the "good side" of people and even become "a kindred spirit" to the least likely candidates. For instance, at the beginning of the story she soon wins over crusty-hearted (but tender on the inside) Marilla Cuthbert, who first wants to give her back to the orphanage because she isn't a boy. Another character "hard to get" is Rachael Lynde, but Anne even manages to do this in the end.

Today we would say that Anne possessed great "social skills," but although she is influential upon others she is not manipulative (using others to serve her own ends). Anne's winsome ways are truly one of her most outstanding character traits, which goes along with being able to put herself in other people's shoes before passing judgement.

Another thing Anne realizes about herself is that she thrives upon her rich imagination. She can endure present hardships by reading, reciting poetry or just thinking positively about more favourable situations.  She transcends the ordinary with her mind, and she transmits this zest for life to others.

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What is Anne's personality in Anne of Green Gables?

Anne is a strong-willed, highly intelligent, and imaginative girl. She also is a good person because she is honest, helpful, and forthright.

Anne has a sharp temper that can flare, the shadow side to her deeply vital personality. She is loyal to her friends, but once you get on her bad side, as Gilbert finds out when he teases her about her hair color, she can be fierce and unforgiving. She doesn't even forgive Gilbert when he saves her from a pond.

Anne can make blunders, especially when she first arrives in her new home, and her vibrant imagination can sometimes cause her to woolgather and forget the task at hand.

Anne is the kind of person who isn't likely to bore you. She engages with both the interior life of the mind and the world around her. She is the type of person who always has something going on, which can sometimes bother staid, conventional people. She, however, brings life and love to the sometimes uptight environment of Green Gables.

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