Anne of Green Gables · Chapter
XXXVII: The Reaper Whose Name Is Death explained
Matthew Cuthbert dies suddenly of a heart attack after learning of the Abbey Bank's failure.
What happens
Matthew Cuthbert dies suddenly of a heart attack after learning of the Abbey Bank's failure. Anne and Marilla are devastated, and the community gathers to mourn. Anne struggles with grief but gradually finds solace in nature, friendship, and memories. Marilla reveals her deep love for Anne, and the chapter ends with plans for Marilla's eye examination and reflections on the past.
Themes in this chapter
Morality and Redemption
Marilla's confession of love and regret over past harshness reflects themes of redemption and the importance of expressing affection.
Nature and Beauty
Anne finds healing in nature, planting a rosebush on Matthew's grave and appreciating the beauty around her despite grief.
Friendship and Community
The community rallies around Green Gables, and Diana and Mrs. Allan offer support to Anne.
Characters to notice
- Marilla Cuthbert
Devastated by Matthew's death, she breaks her usual reserve to express her love for Anne.
- Anne Shirley
Grieves deeply for Matthew, struggles with tearless sorrow, and later finds comfort in nature and friendship.
- Matthew Cuthbert
Dies suddenly from a heart attack after news of the Abbey Bank failure.
- Mrs. Rachel Lynde
Among the first to arrive and confirms Matthew's death.
- Diana Barry
Offers comfort to Anne, though Anne prefers solitude.
- Mrs. Allan
Provides gentle counsel to Anne about grief and finding joy again.
Key passages
“Matthew, what is the matter? Matthew, are you sick?”
Marilla urgently asks Matthew what is wrong.
Marilla's alarm at Matthew's sudden collapse.
“I don't think we can do anything for him.”
Mrs. Lynde gently tells Marilla and Anne that Matthew has died.
Mrs. Lynde's sorrowful confirmation of death.
“We've got each other, Anne.”
Marilla reminds Anne that they still have one another.
Marilla's comfort to Anne after Matthew's death.
“It seems like disloyalty to Matthew, somehow, to find pleasure in these things now that he has gone.”
Anne feels guilty for still finding joy in life after Matthew's death.
Anne's struggle with grief and guilt.
“I was down to the graveyard to plant a rosebush on Matthew's grave this afternoon.”
Anne planted a rosebush on Matthew's grave as a tribute.
Anne's act of remembrance and love.