As a fan of classic literature and television adaptations, I could not help but be drawn into the world of “Anne with an E.” The beloved Canadian story “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery has captured the hearts of readers for over a century, and the recent TV adaptation has rekindled that love for many. This blog post aims to provide an in-depth look at the original book, the TV series, and the true story behind it all. So, let’s delve into the enchanting world of Anne Shirley and her adventures on Prince Edward Island.
The origins: Lucy Maud Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables
Born in 1874, Lucy Maud Montgomery was a Canadian author best known for her series of novels, beginning with “Anne of Green Gables,” published in 1908. The book was an immediate success, and Montgomery continued to write about the plucky red-haired orphan, Anne Shirley, in several subsequent novels.
“Anne of Green Gables” was inspired by Montgomery’s own childhood experiences and the beautiful landscape of Prince Edward Island, where she grew up. The story was initially rejected by several publishers before being accepted by L.C. Page & Co, and has since sold over 50 million copies worldwide.
Book summary: Anne of Green Gables
“Anne of Green Gables” tells the story of an imaginative and spirited orphan named Anne Shirley, mistakenly sent to live with the Cuthbert siblings, Marilla and Matthew, on their farm, Green Gables. The Cuthberts had requested a boy to help with chores, but they quickly grow fond of the talkative, red-haired girl.
Throughout the novel, readers follow Anne as she navigates life in the small town of Avonlea, making friends (and a few enemies), attending school, and eventually finding her place in the world. The book is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of imagination.
The true story behind the classic tale
While “Anne of Green Gables” is a work of fiction, it is heavily influenced by Lucy Maud Montgomery’s own life. Many of Anne’s experiences in the novel were inspired by Montgomery’s childhood on Prince Edward Island, where she lived with her grandparents after her mother’s death. Like Anne, Montgomery had a vivid imagination and a love for nature and literature.
Though the characters and events in “Anne of Green Gables” are fictional, they are rooted in Montgomery’s experiences and observations of the people around her. The novel serves as both a tribute to her beloved homeland and a reflection on the challenges and joys of growing up.
Anne with an E: TV series summary
“Anne with an E” is a Canadian television series created by Moira Walley-Beckett, based on the “Anne of Green Gables” novel. The show premiered on CBC in 2017 and ran for three seasons before its cancellation in 2019. The series closely follows the narrative of the book, but also expands on its themes and characters, giving viewers a deeper understanding of Anne’s world and the people in it.
The show has been praised for its stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and its commitment to addressing contemporary social issues such as racism, feminism, and LGBTQ+ rights. While some purists argue that these additions deviate from the original text, many fans appreciate the series’ fresh take on the classic tale.
Best episodes and seasons: A guide for viewers
“Anne with an E” offers a wealth of memorable episodes and moments throughout its three-season run. The following guide will help you navigate the series and make the most of your viewing experience:
- Best Season: Season 2 is often considered the strongest, as it delves deeper into the characters’ relationships and explores important social issues.
- Best Episodes: Some standout episodes include “I Am No Bird, and No Net Ensnares Me” (Season 1, Episode 7), which sees Anne and Gilbert’s rivalry come to a head; “The Painful Eagerness of Unfed Hope” (Season 2, Episode 1), introducing the character of Cole, a talented artist struggling with his identity; and “The Summit of My Desires” (Season 3, Episode 10), the emotional series finale.
When and where: The setting and locations of Anne with an E
The story of Anne with an E takes place primarily in the small town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, Canada, during the late 19th century. This picturesque setting plays a crucial role in the narrative, as Anne’s love for her new surroundings shapes her experiences and relationships.
The TV series was filmed in various locations across Ontario, Canada, including Millbrook, Caledon, and Prince Edward County. The production team went to great lengths to recreate the charm of Prince Edward Island, and the result is a visually stunning backdrop for Anne’s adventures.
Meet the characters: Who’s who in Anne with an E
“Anne with an E” features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique traits and storylines. Here’s a brief overview of the main characters:
- Anne Shirley (played by Amybeth McNulty): The imaginative, outspoken protagonist of the series, Anne is a red-haired orphan who finds a new home at Green Gables.
- Marilla Cuthbert (played by Geraldine James): The stern yet loving guardian of Anne, Marilla is initially skeptical of Anne’s arrival but soon becomes a mother figure to her.
- Matthew Cuthbert (played by R.H. Thomson): Marilla’s brother and Anne’s other guardian, Matthew is a quiet and gentle man who quickly forms a close bond with Anne.
- Diana Barry (played by Dalila Bela): Anne’s best friend and “kindred spirit,” Diana is loyal, kind, and supportive.
- Gilbert Blythe (played by Lucas Jade Zumann): Anne’s academic rival and eventual love interest, Gilbert is intelligent, charming, and kind-hearted.
- Jerry Baynard (played by Aymeric Jett Montaz): A French-Canadian farmhand at Green Gables, Jerry becomes a close friend to Anne and an important part of the Cuthbert family.
- Rachel Lynde (played by Corrine Koslo): A nosy neighbor and friend to the Cuthberts, Rachel often provides comic relief and sage advice.
Memorable guest stars and their roles
Throughout its three seasons, “Anne with an E” has welcomed an array of talented guest stars who have made a lasting impact on the series. Some notable guest appearances include:
- Deborah Grover as Josephine Barry: Diana’s wealthy, eccentric aunt who befriends Anne and provides support and encouragement.
- Cara Ricketts as Mary Lacroix: A kind, hard-working woman who becomes a mother figure to Cole and a friend to the Cuthberts.
- Dalmar Abuzeid as Sebastian ‘Bash’ Lacroix: A Trinidadian laborer who forms a close friendship with Gilbert and eventually settles in Avonlea.
Iconic quotes from Anne with an E
“Anne with an E” is full of memorable quotes that encapsulate the spirit of the series and its characters. Here are a few fan favorites:
- “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” – Anne Shirley
- “Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It’s splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.” – Anne Shirley
- “Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it yet.” – Anne Shirley
The enchanting soundtrack: Amin Bhatia and Ari Posner
The beautiful score for “Anne with an E” was created by composers Amin Bhatia and Ari Posner. The music perfectly captures the whimsical, emotional nature of the series, enhancing the storytelling and transporting viewers to Anne’s world. The soundtrack is available for streaming on various platforms, allowing fans to relive their favorite moments from the show.
Curiosities and behind-the-scenes facts
- The series was originally titled “Anne” but was changed to “Anne with an E” for its international release on Netflix.
- Creator Moira Walley-Beckett won an Emmy for her work on “Breaking Bad” before bringing “Anne with an E” to life.
- Anne’s iconic red hair was achieved using a combination of wigs and dye for actress Amybeth McNulty.
Gadgets and collectibles related to ‘Anne with an E’
If you’re a fan of ‘Anne with an E’, there are several gadgets and collectibles that you may be interested in. These include action figures, posters, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.These items make great gifts for fans of the book or movie.
‘Anne with an E’ screenplay by Moira Walley-Beckett, analysis, and where to download it
Moira Walley-Beckett wrote the screenplay for Anne with an E, doing an excellent job of bringing the story to life on the screen.
While there were some changes made to accommodate the TV series’s format, the screenplay does a good job of capturing the essence of the story.
The screenplay is available for download online, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in screenwriting or movie-making. The screenplay provides insight into Moira Walley-Beckett’s creative process and fine approach to storytelling.
Embracing the spirit: Tips for Anne with an E cosplay
Dressing up as your favorite “Anne with an E” character can be a fun way to express your love for the series. Here are some tips for creating the perfect Anne Shirley, Marilla Cuthbert, or Diana Barry cosplay:
- Anne Shirley: Focus on Anne’s red hair, either by dyeing your own or finding a wig. Don’t forget her straw hat adorned with flowers and a simple, modest dress.
- Marilla Cuthbert: A high-collared blouse, long skirt, and apron will help you capture Marilla’s no-nonsense appearance. A stern expression is also a must!
- Diana Barry: Diana’s style is more feminine and delicate than Anne’s, with lace details and soft colors. Long, dark hair is a key feature of Diana’s look.
When does ‘Anne with an E – 4’ come out ? Sequel updates
Given the huge success of ‘Anne with an E’, we are all waiting for the release date of the next season or the announcement of a spin-off of the TV series. They do that about anything now, I don’t see why they wouldn’t do it about Anne with an E.
In recent months, some statements by Moira Walley-Beckett and Amybeth McNulty hint at an imminent date on the release of ‘Anne with an E 4’, and we will keep you updated as soon as we have a firm date.
While waiting for the official release of Anne with an E’ new chapter, you could relive the emotions and mood of the TV series by reading the book ‘Anne of Green Gables’ or Lucy Maud Montgomery’s other books
Where to watch ‘Anne with an E’ – streaming, download and DVD options
‘Anne with an E’ is currently available to stream on various online platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Netflix. The TV series is also available on DVD and Blu-ray; nice idea for a gift to a ‘Anne with an E’s fan.
More works by Lucy Maud Montgomery
If you’ve enjoyed “Anne of Green Gables” and the “Anne with an E” TV series, be sure to explore other books by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Some popular titles include:
- “Emily of New Moon” (a trilogy featuring another imaginative young girl)
- “The Blue Castle” (a standalone novel about a woman who defies societal expectations)
- “Pat of Silver Bush” (a two-book series following the life of a girl named Pat)
Moira Walley-Beckett’s filmography
In addition to her work on “Anne with an E,” Moira Walley-Beckett has an impressive filmography that includes writing and producing for various television series. Some of her notable credits include:
- “Breaking Bad” (2008-2013)
- “Flesh and Bone” (2015)
- “The Writers’ Block” (2018)
What to watch next: Similar films and TV shows to Anne with an E
Craving more period dramas and heartfelt stories? Here are some recommendations for films and TV shows to watch after “Anne with an E”:
- “Little Women” (2019 film adaptation)
- “The Secret Garden” (1993 film or 2020 adaptation)
- “A Little Princess” (1995 film)
- “When Calls the Heart” (TV series)
- “Road to Avonlea” (TV series)
Books to read after Anne of Green Gables
If you’re looking for more literary adventures to embark onafter finishing “Anne of Green Gables,” here are some recommendations for books to read next:
- “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
- “Pollyanna” by Eleanor H. Porter
- “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm” by Kate Douglas Wiggin
- “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
- “The Railway Children” by E. Nesbit
Conclusion: The lasting impact of Anne with an E
“Anne with an E” is more than just a retelling of a classic tale; it’s a celebration of imagination, resilience, and the power of friendship. The TV series has introduced a whole new generation of viewers to the world of Anne Shirley, while also honoring the beloved characters and themes of the original book.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of “Anne of Green Gables” or a newcomer to Anne’s world, there’s something magical about this story that continues to captivate and inspire. So, take a trip to Avonlea, lose yourself in the pages of the book, or binge-watch the TV series – and let the enchantment of Anne with an E work its magic on you
