Episode 4 of Anne with an E, titled “An Inward Treasure Born,” delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of social integration within the quaint community of Avonlea. Following Anne’s decision to leave school after a bullying incident, the episode explores her life at Green Gables, Marilla’s attempts to guide her, and a dramatic event that ultimately shifts the town’s perception of the imaginative orphan girl.
Anne’s imaginative retreat
The episode opens with Anne withdrawing into her imagination as a coping mechanism to deal with the bullying and lack of acceptance at school. She spends her days at Green Gables, engaging in conversations with household objects and letting her imagination run wild, much to the concern of Marilla and Matthew. Marilla seeks advice from Rachel Lynde, who suggests letting Anne come to her own decision about returning to school.
However, Marilla’s patience wears thin when Anne’s daydreaming leads to a kitchen mishap, almost burning down Green Gables. Frustrated, Marilla insists that Anne return to school, believing that “idle hands” are the root of the problem.
Deception and its consequences
Resentful of Marilla’s decision, Anne resorts to deception. She pretends to go to school, spending her days in a self-made sanctuary in the woods, but lying about her whereabouts to Marilla. This act of dishonesty is soon discovered when Diana Barry and Ruby Gillis visit Green Gables, revealing that Anne has not been attending classes.
Marilla is deeply disappointed by Anne’s deception and seeks guidance from the town’s minister. The minister’s visit leads to a discussion about honesty and the importance of adhering to societal expectations. However, Anne is not particularly receptive to the minister’s advice.
A fire and a heroic act
The episode takes a dramatic turn when a fire breaks out at the Gillis’s farmhouse. The community rushes to help battle the blaze, but Anne’s quick thinking and knowledge of fire safety, gained from a manual at the orphanage, prove invaluable. She bravely enters the burning house to close the windows and doors, slowing the fire’s spread and earning the praise of the townspeople.
This heroic act marks a turning point in how Anne is perceived by the Avonlea community. Her bravery and resourcefulness impress even her harshest critics, leading to a gradual acceptance and warming of the town towards the peculiar orphan girl.
Blossoming friendships
“An Inward Treasure Born” also explores the theme of friendship, particularly the budding bond between Anne and Ruby Gillis. After the fire, Ruby stays with Anne at Green Gables, and the two girls form a close connection.
The episode showcases the development of the Avonlea Story Club, a group of girls who share a love for storytelling and imaginative play. This club provides Anne with a sense of belonging and acceptance, further solidifying her friendships with Diana and Ruby.
Gilbert’s gentle nature
Gilbert Blythe appears in the episode, displaying his gentle nature and attempts to make amends with Anne after their initial conflict. He helps Ruby after she falls during the fire and shows genuine appreciation for the scones baked by Anne and Ruby. However, Anne remains resolute in her grudge against Gilbert, refusing to acknowledge his presence or kindness.
Themes and Analysis
“An Inward Treasure Born” explores several significant themes:
Identity and Belonging: The episode delves into Anne’s struggle to find her place in Avonlea and her desire to belong to a family and community. Her initial rejection by the school and some townspeople leads her to withdraw into her imagination, but her heroic act during the fire helps her gain acceptance and recognition.
The Power of Imagination: Anne’s imagination is portrayed as both a source of comfort and a potential hindrance. While it allows her to cope with difficult situations and express her unique perspective, it also leads to trouble when it interferes with her responsibilities.
Honesty and Deception: The episode examines the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of truthfulness. Anne’s decision to lie about attending school creates further conflict and highlights the challenges of communication and trust between her and Marilla.
Community and Acceptance: The fire at the Gillis’s farmhouse serves as a catalyst for change in the community’s perception of Anne. Her bravery and quick thinking demonstrate her value and contribute to her integration into Avonlea society.
Friendship and Connection: The episode emphasizes the importance of friendship and the support that Anne finds in her relationships with Diana and Ruby. The Avonlea Story Club provides a space for these girls to express themselves and bond over their shared interests.
Deviations from the source material
Some reviews note that Episode 4 deviates from the original Anne of Green Gables book. Some viewers were disappointed by the lack of “iconic moments” from the book in this episode and felt that Anne’s deception was out of character. However, others appreciated the additions of characters like Jerry and the deeper exploration of themes such as social integration and prejudice.
Overall, “An Inward Treasure Born” is a pivotal episode in Anne with an E, marking a turning point in Anne’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance within the Avonlea community. It delves into complex themes of identity, belonging, and the transformative power of friendship, showcasing Anne’s resilience and the gradual shift in the town’s perception of the imaginative orphan girl.
