The character of Anne Shirley, the imaginative and spirited orphan from L.M. Montgomery’s classic novel Anne of Green Gables, has graced screens in numerous adaptations over the decades. When referring to “Episode 23,” the specific content depends on which beloved series is being discussed, as different productions structure their narratives and episode counts uniquely.
While some popular adaptations like the 1985 miniseries or the recent Anne with an E on Netflix do not extend to 23 episodes, two notable animated series feature an “Episode 23” that highlights different facets of Anne’s early life and adventures in Avonlea.
Anne of Green Gables (1979 Anime): “Anne is Invited to Tea”
In the acclaimed 1979 Japanese animated series, part of Nippon Animation’s World Masterpiece Theater, Episode 23 is titled “Anne is Invited to Tea” (赤毛のアン, Akage no Anne). This episode delves into Anne Shirley’s anxieties and aspirations surrounding a social event that holds immense importance for her.
The plot revolves around Mrs. Allan, the kind new minister’s wife, extending an invitation to Anne for tea. This invitation fills Anne with both immense joy and considerable nervousness. She is determined to make a good impression and adhere to all the proper etiquette she has diligently studied, particularly from the “Family Herald”. Anne’s preparations include carefully picking raspberries to bring as a gift, and despite a minor mishap where she falls into the water while doing so, she arrives at the tea party.
At the tea party, Anne is surprised to find another girl, Loretta Bradley, from White Sands, also invited. Initially, Anne’s nervousness is palpable, but Mrs. Allan’s warm and friendly demeanor soon puts her at ease. The afternoon unfolds as Anne had hoped, a peaceful time of conversation and connection. She is particularly delighted when Mrs. Allan praises her raspberries, making Anne feel a profound sense of pride and belonging. This episode beautifully captures Anne’s longing for acceptance and her burgeoning friendship with Mrs. Allan, whom she considers a true kindred spirit.
Anne of Green Gables: The Animated Series (2001-2002): “A Welcome Hero”
Another animated adaptation, Anne of Green Gables: The Animated Series, features Episode 23 titled “A Welcome Hero”. This installment presents a different kind of adventure for Anne, focusing on her idealism and eventual realization about appearances.
In “A Welcome Hero,” Anne is absolutely thrilled by the news that the celebrated adventure novelist, E.J. Lark, is coming to Avonlea. She envisions a dashing, debonair figure, a hero straight out of his thrilling tales. However, upon meeting the author, Anne is initially dismayed to discover that E.J. Lark is not the imposing man she imagined, but rather a bespectacled woman who, to Anne’s imaginative mind, resembles a librarian.
The episode then explores Anne’s journey of understanding that true heroism and greatness are not always found in conventional appearances or dramatic exploits. Through her interactions with Miss Lark, Anne learns a valuable lesson about not judging a book by its cover and begins to appreciate the novelist for her intellect and character, rather than a preconceived image. The narrative also subtly shifts to honoring local heroes and their everyday bravery, inspired by Miss Lark’s presence and Anne’s evolving perspective.
Other Adaptations
It’s important to note that not all “Anne Shirley” adaptations have an Episode 23. The highly regarded 1985 Canadian miniseries, starring Megan Follows as Anne, consists of only two feature-length parts. Similarly, the popular Netflix series Anne with an E, while widely watched, concluded its run after three seasons, with its final season comprising 10 episodes, thus never reaching an “Episode 23”. The final episode of Anne with an E (Season 3, Episode 10) was titled “The Better Feeling of My Heart”.
For readers of L.M. Montgomery’s original novel, Chapter 23 is titled “Anne Comes to Grief in an Affair of Honor,” detailing Anne’s infamous dare from Josie Pye to walk the ridgepole of the Barry’s roof, resulting in a fall and a broken ankle.
In conclusion, “Anne Shirley – Episode 23” primarily refers to specific animated series, each offering a unique exploration of Anne’s character, growth, and adventures in Avonlea.
