Anne of the Island · Chapter
II: Garlands of Autumn explained
Anne prepares to leave for Redmond College, attending an A.V.I.S.
What happens
Anne prepares to leave for Redmond College, attending an A.V.I.S. farewell party where she and Gilbert are honored. Despite the celebration, she feels disgruntled by well-meaning but discouraging comments from neighbors. Gilbert cheers her with a walk through the woods, where they share a moment under an apple tree, hinting at their deepening bond.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Career
Anne's determination to attend Redmond College is challenged by neighbors' doubts, yet she persists, showing her ambition.
Change and Loss
The chapter marks the end of Anne's Avonlea childhood as she prepares to leave for college, with farewells and nostalgic walks.
Love and Marriage
Mrs. Lynde and Marilla discuss Anne and Gilbert's future marriage, while Anne's jealousy over Ruby hints at romantic tension.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Feels disgruntled by neighbors' doubts about college, but enjoys a farewell party and a walk with Gilbert.
- Gilbert Blythe
Comforts Anne after her discouragement, walks with her in the woods, and is observed by Mrs. Lynde as a potential match.
- Marilla Cuthbert
Watches Anne and Gilbert from the window, uncomfortable with Mrs. Lynde's matchmaking talk.
- Mrs. Rachel Lynde
Gossips about Anne and Gilbert's future, approving of a match and criticizing coeducation.
- Diana Barry
Attends the farewell party, rosy and dimpled, shadowed by Fred.
- Ruby Gillis
Attends the party looking handsome, later walks home with Gilbert, making Anne jealous.
Key passages
“Anne is eighteen; I was married when I was that age. We old folks, Marilla, are too much given to thinking children never grow up, that's what. Anne is a young woman and Gilbert's a man, and he worships the ground she walks on, as anyone can see.”
Mrs. Lynde points out that Anne is old enough to marry, and that Gilbert is clearly in love with her.
Mrs. Lynde's matchmaking perspective contrasts with Marilla's view of Anne and Gilbert as children.
“I'm disgruntled because six women have been here to say goodbye to me, and every one of the six managed to say something that seemed to take the colour right out of life and leave it as gray and dismal and cheerless as a November morning.”
Anne feels discouraged after several neighbors express doubts about her college plans.
Highlights Anne's sensitivity to others' opinions and the societal pressure on women pursuing education.