Episode 10 of Anne with an E, titled “The Growing Good of the World” (Season 2 finale), and Anne Shirley, titled “The Bend in the Road,” marks a significant turning point for many characters in Avonlea. This episode resolves several key conflicts, sets the stage for future developments, and emphasizes themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and pursuing one’s passions.
Cole’s Departure and New Beginning
Cole, facing prejudice and a lack of understanding in Avonlea, makes the difficult decision to leave. Despite apologizing to Billy Andrews, who had bullied him, Cole realizes that Avonlea may not be the accepting environment he needs. He finds solace and understanding with Aunt Josephine in Charlottetown, who offers him a new home where he can be himself and pursue his artistic talents. This move provides Cole with a fresh start and the opportunity to live authentically.
Miss Stacy’s Fight and Avonlea’s Choice
Miss Stacy faces dismissal due to her unconventional teaching methods and Rachel Lynde’s disapproval. A town hall meeting is called to decide her fate. Marilla, despite her initial reservations, stands up for Miss Stacy, challenging Rachel’s closed-mindedness. Anne and her friends, determined to keep their beloved teacher, secretly travel to Charlottetown to advocate for her. They use a creative demonstration involving light bulbs and potatoes to showcase Miss Stacy’s innovative approach to education. Ultimately, the people of Avonlea vote to keep Miss Stacy as their teacher, demonstrating a growing acceptance of progress and individuality.
Gilbert’s Decision and Reconciliation
Gilbert, after struggling to manage the farm on his own, realizes the difficulties Sebastian faced. He honors his deal with Sebastian by offering him part ownership of the farm, acknowledging Sebastian’s hard work and contributions. Gilbert also expresses that he considers Sebastian and Mary to be family. This leads to a reconciliation between Gilbert and Sebastian, with Sebastian and Mary getting married and moving back to the farm. Gilbert decides to stay in Avonlea for a while longer, postponing his plans for college.
Anne’s Inspiration and Future Aspirations
Inspired by Miss Stacy, Anne decides to become a teacher. She realizes the importance of education and wants to make a difference in the lives of others. This decision reflects her growth and her desire to contribute to her community. The episode closes with Anne and Gilbert making up and apologizing to one another, hinting at the development of their relationship.
Other Key Developments
- Bash and Mary’s Relationship: Bash visits Mary and expresses his desire to build a life with her. They eventually get married and become part of Gilbert’s extended family.
- Marilla’s Support: Marilla confronts Rachel Lynde about her prejudice and defends Miss Stacy, showcasing her growing open-mindedness and support for Anne and her friends.
- Anne and Gilbert: In Anne Shirley, Gilbert breaks up with Winifred, but Winifred asks him to keep it a secret for two weeks. He writes Anne a letter professing his love, but Anne mistakenly thinks he is boasting about his engagement to Winifred and destroys the letter.
Themes
- Acceptance: The episode explores the theme of acceptance through the characters of Cole and Miss Stacy. Both face prejudice and judgment for being different, but ultimately find acceptance and support from those who value their individuality.
- Forgiveness: Gilbert seeks forgiveness from Sebastian, and Marilla asks for forgiveness from Anne for not expressing joy for her return from college. The act of forgiveness allows the characters to move forward and build stronger relationships.
- Pursuing Your Passions: Anne and Gilbert both make decisions that allow them to pursue their passions. Anne decides to become a teacher, while Gilbert chooses to stay in Avonlea and help Sebastian on the farm.
- The Importance of Community: The episode emphasizes the importance of community and the support that individuals can find in one another. Anne and her friends rally together to support Miss Stacy, while Gilbert embraces Sebastian and Mary as part of his family.
- Growth and Change: The characters in Anne with an E and Anne Shirley undergo significant growth and change throughout the episode. They learn from their mistakes, challenge their beliefs, and make decisions that shape their futures.
Conclusion
Episode 10 serves as a satisfying conclusion to the season, resolving conflicts and setting the stage for future storylines. The characters face challenges, make difficult choices, and ultimately find hope and happiness in their own way. The episode reinforces the importance of acceptance, forgiveness, and pursuing one’s passions. The title, “The Bend in the Road,” symbolizes the uncertainty and excitement that lies ahead for Anne and her friends as they embark on new adventures.
