# The Bend in the Road explained — Anne of Green Gables

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

## What happens

Anne decides to give up her scholarship to Redmond College in order to stay at Green Gables and care for Marilla, whose eyesight is failing. She plans to teach at the Avonlea school after Gilbert Blythe selflessly withdraws his application in her favor. The chapter culminates in a reconciliation between Anne and Gilbert, who agree to become friends, and Anne finds contentment in her new path, embracing the unknown future with hope.

## Themes in this chapter

### Belonging and Home

Anne's decision to stay at Green Gables underscores her deep attachment to the place as her true home, choosing it over academic ambitions.

### Friendship and Community

Gilbert's selfless act and the subsequent reconciliation highlight the power of friendship and community support in shaping Anne's path.

### Growth and Education

Anne redefines her ambitions, choosing to teach and continue her studies independently, showing that education can take many forms.

## Character check-ins

### Anne Shirley

Decides to forgo college to stay with Marilla; plans to teach and study at home; reconciles with Gilbert.

### Marilla Cuthbert

Struggles with the prospect of selling Green Gables due to failing eyesight; is moved by Anne's sacrifice and becomes more mellow.

### Gilbert Blythe

Withdraws his application for the Avonlea school so Anne can have it; reconciles with Anne and they become friends.

### Mrs. Rachel Lynde

Visits Anne and Marilla; informs Anne that the trustees have given her the school; expresses traditional views on women's education.

### Diana Barry

Signals to Anne from the Barry gable, continuing their old custom of communication.

### Matthew Cuthbert

Mentioned as Anne visits his grave to place fresh flowers.

## Key lines

> Now there is a bend in it. I don't know what lies around the bend, but I'm going to believe that the best does.

Anne acknowledges that her future has taken an unexpected turn, but she chooses to trust that what lies ahead will be good.

_This metaphor captures Anne's optimistic acceptance of her changed plans._

> I'm not going to take the scholarship. I decided so the night after you came home from town.

Anne tells Marilla she has made up her mind to decline the scholarship and stay at Green Gables.

_Anne's firm decision marks a pivotal moment of self-sacrifice and loyalty._

> We are going to be the best of friends. We were born to be good friends, Anne.

Gilbert expresses his belief that he and Anne are destined for a strong friendship.

_This line signifies the end of their long-standing rivalry and the beginning of a new relationship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_green_gables_se/chapters/xxxviii-the-bend-in-the-road
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_green_gables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_green_gables_se/chapters