Anne of Avonlea · Chapter
XVI: The Substance of Things Hoped For explained
Anne receives a letter announcing that Mrs.
What happens
Anne receives a letter announcing that Mrs. Charlotte E. Morgan, a famous author, will visit Green Gables for dinner. She excitedly plans the menu and preparations, involving Diana and the household. Davy shares a comical theological misunderstanding about heaven being in Simon Fletcher's garret, which Anne gently corrects. The chapter highlights Anne's idealistic anticipation and her efforts to make everything perfect for the esteemed guest.
Themes in this chapter
Imagination and Idealism
Anne's elaborate fantasies about Mrs. Morgan's visit and her desire to live up to the ideals of Mrs. Morgan's heroines reflect her imaginative and idealistic nature.
Education and Influence
Anne gently corrects Davy's misunderstanding about heaven, showing her role as an educator and the influence of literature (Mrs. Morgan's books) on her own values.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Excitedly prepares for Mrs. Morgan's visit, plans the dinner menu, and corrects Davy's theological confusion.
- Davy Keith
Expresses hunger, shares his mistaken belief about heaven being in Simon Fletcher's garret, and negotiates good behavior for a future picnic.
- Dora Keith
Industriously helps Marilla in the garden and shells peas.
- Marilla Cuthbert
Listens to Anne's plans, offers dry advice, and allows Anne to cook the dinner.
- Diana Barry
Visited by Anne to share the news of Mrs. Morgan's visit and plans to help with the dinner and decorations.
- Priscilla Grant
Sent the letter informing Anne of Mrs. Morgan's impending visit.
Key passages
“I don't like picking fowls, but isn't it fortunate we don't have to put our souls into what our hands may be doing? I've been picking chickens with my hands but in imagination I've been roaming the Milky Way.”
Anne finds the chore of plucking chickens distasteful but comforts herself by letting her imagination wander to grander thoughts.
Shows Anne's ability to transcend mundane tasks through imagination.
“If I'm as good as good can be all day tomorrow will you let me be just as bad as I like all the next day?”
Davy tries to negotiate a deal where perfect behavior one day earns him the freedom to misbehave the next.
Illustrates Davy's mischievous and bargaining nature.