# III: Marilla Cuthbert Is Surprised explained — Anne of Green Gables

> Chapter companion for Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

Marilla is astonished to find that Mrs. Spencer has brought a girl, Anne Shirley, instead of the boy they requested. Anne is heartbroken upon realizing she is not wanted, but Marilla and Matthew decide to let her stay temporarily while they investigate the mistake. Anne's imaginative and talkative nature begins to soften Marilla's stern demeanor, and Matthew shows a quiet desire to keep her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Imagination and Creativity

Anne's imaginative naming of places (e.g., 'White Way of Delight') and her desire to be called 'Cordelia' highlight her creative escape from harsh reality.

### Belonging and Home

Anne's deep yearning for a home and her despair at being unwanted are central to this chapter, as she cries herself to sleep in the east gable.

### Identity and Self-Acceptance

Anne's insistence on 'Anne with an e' and her rejection of her plain name reflect her struggle to define her own identity.

## Character check-ins

### Anne Shirley

Arrives at Green Gables as an unexpected girl instead of a boy; expresses despair and longing for a home; reveals her imaginative nature and preference for the name 'Cordelia' and 'Anne with an e'.

### Marilla Cuthbert

Surprised and displeased by the mistake; initially insists on sending Anne back but shows a reluctant, rusty smile; begins to soften slightly.

### Matthew Cuthbert

Brings Anne home despite the mistake; quietly advocates for keeping her, finding her interesting; smokes to relieve his perturbation.

## Key lines

> You don't want me! You don't want me because I'm not a boy! I might have expected it. Nobody ever did want me.

Anne realizes the Cuthberts expected a boy and feels rejected, expressing her deep-seated sense of being unwanted.

_This moment captures Anne's vulnerability and the central conflict of the chapter._

> How can you call it a good night when you know it must be the very worst night I've ever had?

Anne reproaches Marilla for calling the night 'good' when she is in despair.

_Shows Anne's dramatic and emotional nature, as well as her inability to hide her feelings._

> We might be some good to her

Matthew suggests that keeping Anne could benefit her, even if she isn't useful for farm work.

_Reveals Matthew's compassionate side and his quiet influence on Marilla's decision._

## Links

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