Ever wondered what makes the characters of "Anne with an E" so captivating? It's the way they embody resilience, vulnerability, and the enduring power of the human spirit, all while navigating the trials and tribulations of late 19th-century life.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Prince Edward Island, "Anne with an E" is a Canadian television series, a modern adaptation of the timeless novel "Anne of Green Gables" by Lucy Maud Montgomery. The series, a collaborative effort between the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Netflix, premiered on Netflix on July 6, 2018, and on CBC on September 23, 2018. This adaptation, developed by Moira Walley-Beckett, delves deeper into the complexities of the original story, exploring social issues and themes relevant to both the late 19th century and contemporary audiences.
The show stars Amybeth McNulty as the titular character, Anne Shirley. The story begins with Anne, a young orphan girl, who, after enduring a difficult childhood in various orphanages and the homes of strangers, is mistakenly sent to live with the elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Their lives, and the lives of the community in Avonlea, are forever changed by Anne's arrival. The series explores the adventures of Anne as she learns to navigate her new life on Prince Edward Island. The series quickly earned a devoted following for its sensitive portrayal of its characters, it's stunning visuals, and exploration of complex themes.
Main Characters of "Anne with an E"
The series boasts a rich ensemble of characters, each contributing to the depth and emotional resonance of the story. The main characters include Anne Shirley, Marilla Cuthbert, Matthew Cuthbert, Gilbert Blythe, Diana Barry, and more. Here's a closer look at some of the most prominent figures:
| Character | Actor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Shirley Cuthbert | Amybeth McNulty | The protagonist of the series, Anne is a spirited, imaginative, and often misunderstood orphan girl who arrives in Avonlea. She is known for her vivid imagination, her love of language, and her resilience in the face of adversity. Anne transforms the lives of her adoptive family and the town of Avonlea with her unique perspective and unwavering spirit. Anne's journey involves learning to love and be loved, dealing with grief, and navigating the challenges of growing up. |
| Marilla Cuthbert | Geraldine James | A stern but ultimately loving woman, Marilla is Matthew's sister and Anne's adoptive guardian. Initially resistant to Anne's unconventional ways, Marilla gradually softens as she witnesses Anne's genuine goodness and resilience. Marilla is a pillar of strength and a symbol of the power of familial love. |
| Matthew Cuthbert | R.H. Thomson | Marilla's kind and gentle brother, Matthew provides Anne with unwavering support and affection. He is a quiet man, but his love for Anne is evident in his actions and his quiet encouragement. Matthew represents the unconditional acceptance and fatherly love that Anne desperately needs. |
| Gilbert Blythe | Lucas Jade Zumann | Anne's intellectual rival and eventual love interest. Gilbert is intelligent, kind, and persistent in his pursuit of Anne's affections. Their relationship is a central theme in the series, evolving from playful rivalry to deep affection and mutual respect. |
| Diana Barry | Dalila Bela | Anne's kindred spirit and best friend. Diana is a loyal and supportive companion who shares Anne's adventures and provides a grounding influence in her life. Their friendship is a testament to the power of female camaraderie and mutual understanding. |
| Jerry Baynard | Aymeric Jett Montaz | The hired farmhand at Green Gables, Jerry is a hardworking and dependable young man who forms a bond with Anne. He represents the working class and offers a different perspective on life in Avonlea. |
| Rachel Lynde | Corinne Koslo | A well-meaning but often meddling neighbor, Rachel provides comic relief and a dose of realism to the series. She represents the conservative values of Avonlea but ultimately comes to accept Anne and appreciate her unique qualities. |
| Cole Mackenzie | Cory Grter-Andrew | A sensitive and artistic young man, Cole becomes a close friend to Anne. He is depicted as a young man dealing with societal expectations and the challenges of being different. |
For more detailed information, you can visit the IMDB page for "Anne with an E".
The series does not shy away from tackling complex social issues. It boldly explores themes of prejudice, abuse, and social inequality, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The show is set around the turn of the century and explores themes of acceptance, belonging, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Themes and Social Issues Explored
Beyond the individual characters, "Anne with an E" delves into various thematic elements, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling. Here are some of the key themes:
- Orphanhood and Trauma: The series unflinchingly portrays the hardships faced by orphans in the late 19th century. Anne's experiences highlight the lasting impact of childhood trauma and the importance of finding a supportive and loving environment.
- Gender Roles and Expectations: The show challenges traditional gender roles through characters like Anne, who defies societal expectations with her intelligence and ambition.
- LGBTQ+ Representation: Season two of "Anne with an E" cleverly reworks the story to feature five LGBTQ+ characters. This inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters offers a more inclusive and progressive perspective on life in the 1890s.
- Social Justice and Inequality: The series addresses issues such as racism, sexism, and classism, drawing parallels to contemporary social issues. The show uses its historical setting to spark conversations about these ongoing issues.
- Friendship and Community: The strong bonds of friendship and the importance of community are central to the series. The friendships between Anne and Diana, as well as the relationships among the residents of Avonlea, illustrate the power of human connection.
The show's writers took a modern approach in their telling of this classic story, providing more exploration of the character's backgrounds and motivations.
The characters of "Anne with an E" continue to resonate with audiences due to their depth, authenticity, and the compelling stories they tell. The series is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, with its exploration of the human condition.
The Literary Legacy
The series is based on the classic literary series "Anne of Green Gables," authored by Lucy Maud Montgomery. The original novel, published in 1908, has captivated readers for generations and has been adapted numerous times into various formats, including films, television shows, and stage productions. "Anne with an E" takes a fresh perspective on the story, staying true to the spirit of the original while also providing a more modern, inclusive take on the characters and the themes.
Adapting the Classics
The story of Anne Shirley has been adapted several times, including a 1979 film adaptation. However, "Anne with an E" distinguishes itself with its sensitive and thoughtful approach to sensitive themes, its strong performances, and its stunning visual presentation. The series' ability to tackle challenging issues while maintaining the charm and warmth of the original story has earned it widespread acclaim.
The show is renowned for its accurate depiction of the late 19th century, the costumes, set designs, and locations all contribute to the authenticity of the series. The production design transports viewers to Prince Edward Island, capturing the beauty of the Canadian landscape and the atmosphere of the era.
The series premiered on July 6th, 2018 on Netflix, and September 23rd, 2018 on CBC. Though the show was cancelled, it has a dedicated fanbase and is still regarded as a must-watch for viewers. The show has been lauded for its themes of acceptance, belonging, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
The series also presents a character guide to this heartwarming adaptation. The opening credits showcase the main characters, solidifying their importance.
The legacy of "Anne with an E" extends beyond its television run, and it continues to inspire and move viewers. The series' enduring appeal lies in its exploration of the human condition, its celebration of individuality, and its ability to address complex social issues.
.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20200716024723)
