Anne of Avonlea · Chapter
The Way It Often Happens explained
Anne hosts an unexpected visit from Mrs.
What happens
Anne hosts an unexpected visit from Mrs. Charlotte E. Morgan and Mrs. Pendexter, leading to a delightful afternoon despite her initial panic over her appearance and the meager meal. Meanwhile, Marilla and Dora depart for town, leaving Anne in charge of Davy, who discusses his views on goodness. Anne also suffers a comedic mishap when she accidentally dyes her nose red instead of applying freckle lotion.
Themes in this chapter
Community and Belonging
The spontaneous visit from Mrs. Morgan and Mrs. Pendexter highlights the warmth and hospitality of the Avonlea community, even in unexpected circumstances.
Growth and Maturation
Anne's handling of the visit and her reflection on vanity and mistakes demonstrate her ongoing personal growth and maturity.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Hosts Mrs. Morgan and Mrs. Pendexter, deals with a red nose mishap, and reflects on vanity.
- Diana Barry
Assists Anne during the visit and brings a chicken from her mother.
- Marilla Cuthbert
Departs for town with Dora, leaving Anne in charge.
- Davy Keith
Discusses goodness with Marilla and plans to help Mr. Harrison haul dulse.
- Dora Keith
Accompanies Marilla on her trip to town.
- Mrs. Charlotte E. Morgan
Visits Green Gables with Mrs. Pendexter, charming Anne and Diana with her conversation.
Key passages
“It has indeed been a feast of reason and flow of soul, hasn't it?”
The conversation was intellectually and emotionally satisfying.
Anne expresses her enjoyment of the stimulating discussion with Mrs. Morgan.
“I shall never try any beautifying messes again. They may do for careful, deliberate people; but for anyone so hopelessly given over to making mistakes as I seem to be it's tempting fate to meddle with them.”
Anne vows to stop using beauty treatments, as her tendency to make errors makes them risky.
After the red nose incident, Anne resolves to avoid such products.