# A Jonah Day explained — Anne of Avonlea

> Chapter companion for Anne of Avonlea by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

Anne experiences a difficult day at school, beginning with a toothache and a bad mood. She loses her temper, scolds Barbara Shaw, punishes St. Clair Donnell, and ultimately whips Anthony Pye with a pointer, feeling deep shame and remorse. After confiding in Marilla, she finds comfort and wakes the next morning to a fresh start, unexpectedly receiving a respectful gesture from Anthony.

## Themes in this chapter

### Forgiveness and Redemption

Anne's remorse and the next morning's fresh start, along with Anthony's unexpected respect, illustrate themes of forgiveness and redemption.

### Growth and Maturation

Anne's reflection on her temper and her learning from the 'Jonah day' highlight her ongoing maturation.

### Education and Influence

The chapter explores Anne's challenges as a teacher, including discipline and her influence on students like Anthony Pye.

## Character check-ins

### Anne Shirley

Anne has a 'Jonah day' marked by irritability, losing her temper, and whipping Anthony Pye, leading to intense remorse and self-reflection.

### Anthony Pye

Anthony is whipped by Anne after provoking her, but later shows respect by offering to carry her books and acknowledging her discipline.

### Marilla Cuthbert

Marilla comforts Anne after her difficult day, offering practical advice and reassurance.

### Paul Irving

Paul's disappointed expression haunts Anne after she loses her temper in class.

### Davy Keith

Davy is present at the supper table, eating four plum puffs, contributing to Anne's improved mood.

### Dora Keith

Dora is mentioned as one of the twins at the supper table.

## Key lines

> It really began the night before with a restless, wakeful vigil of grumbling toothache.

The difficult day started the previous night with a toothache that kept Anne awake.

_Sets the stage for Anne's irritable mood._

> I’m so ashamed of myself. I lost my temper and whipped Anthony Pye.

Anne confesses her shame to Marilla for losing her temper and striking Anthony.

_Key moment of remorse and confession._

> Every morn is a fresh beginning, Every morn is the world made new.

Each morning offers a new start and a chance to leave past mistakes behind.

_Anne's optimistic outlook after her difficult day._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_avonlea_se/chapters/xii-a-jonah-day
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_avonlea_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_avonlea_se/chapters