The episode in which Anne Shirley-Cuthbert unequivocally realizes her romantic feelings for Gilbert Blythe is “The Growing Good of the World” (Season 3, Episode 9) of Anne with an E. While their relationship evolves gradually, this episode presents a pivotal moment where Anne’s understanding of her emotions shifts dramatically, spurred by Gilbert’s compassionate act of dedicating himself to medicine and their shared experience in a life-or-death situation.
The Turning Point: A Shared Crisis
The episode unfolds with a devastating influenza outbreak sweeping through Prince Edward Island. Gilbert, having dedicated himself to medical studies after the loss of his father, finds himself overwhelmed by the scale of the suffering. Anne, initially focused on her own aspirations and still grappling with her feelings for Gilbert, witnesses his unwavering dedication and selflessness. This experience is a catalyst for her realization. The narrative skillfully portrays the juxtaposition of Gilbert’s commitment to others and Anne’s growing admiration, laying the groundwork for her emotional awakening.
The Unspoken Connection
Prior to “The Growing Good of the World,” Anne and Gilbert’s relationship is characterized by a complex mix of rivalry, friendship, and unacknowledged attraction. They share intellectual banter and deep-seated understanding, but Anne resists acknowledging the romantic potential, perhaps due to lingering childhood grievances and a fear of vulnerability. However, the shared crisis throws their relationship into sharp relief. Anne sees Gilbert not just as a competitor or friend, but as a compassionate and driven young man dedicated to making a tangible difference in the world.
The Weight of Responsibility
Gilbert’s decision to postpone his education and focus solely on caring for the sick demonstrates his maturity and moral compass. Anne, in turn, recognizes the profound significance of his actions and begins to see him in a new light. It is not merely admiration for his intelligence or attractiveness, but a deeper respect for his character and values. This shared experience fosters a connection that transcends their past rivalry, creating a space for genuine romantic feelings to blossom. The episode’s tension arises from the desperation of the situation and the vulnerability it forces upon both Anne and Gilbert.
Decoding Anne’s Emotional Shift
Anne’s realization isn’t a sudden epiphany, but a gradual understanding that culminates in this episode. Hints of her developing feelings are sprinkled throughout the series, but “The Growing Good of the World” provides the context for her to acknowledge them fully.
From Competition to Compassion
Initially, Anne views Gilbert primarily as a rival, fueled by his childhood teasing about her red hair. As they mature, this rivalry evolves into a complex friendship, characterized by intellectual sparring and mutual respect. However, it’s Gilbert’s compassion and selflessness during the influenza outbreak that truly break down Anne’s defenses. She witnesses his unwavering dedication to serving others, even at personal risk, and this deeply resonates with her own values.
The Undercurrent of Romantic Tension
Despite their platonic interactions, there’s always an undercurrent of romantic tension between Anne and Gilbert. Their shared moments, meaningful glances, and unspoken understandings hint at a deeper connection. In “The Growing Good of the World,” this tension intensifies as they work side-by-side to alleviate the suffering. Anne can no longer ignore the pull she feels towards Gilbert, and she begins to recognize it as something more than just friendship.
Beyond Intellectual Connection
While Anne and Gilbert share a strong intellectual connection, their relationship transcends mere academic pursuits. They understand each other on a deeper, emotional level. They support each other’s dreams and aspirations, and they offer comfort and encouragement in times of need. During the influenza outbreak, this emotional connection becomes even more apparent as they rely on each other for strength and support. It’s this shared vulnerability that allows Anne to finally acknowledge her romantic feelings for Gilbert.
The Significance of “The Growing Good of the World”
This episode is not just a turning point in Anne and Gilbert’s relationship, but also a pivotal moment in Anne’s personal development. It signifies her growth and maturity, her ability to see beyond superficial judgments, and her willingness to embrace her own emotions.
Maturation and Self-Discovery
Anne’s journey throughout the series is one of self-discovery. She evolves from a whimsical and impulsive orphan into a confident and independent young woman. “The Growing Good of the World” marks a significant milestone in this journey. She learns to appreciate Gilbert for who he is, not just for what he represents to her. She also learns to trust her own feelings and to embrace the possibility of a romantic relationship.
Themes of Love and Sacrifice
The episode explores themes of love and sacrifice in the face of adversity. Gilbert sacrifices his own ambitions to serve others, and Anne sacrifices her pride to support him. Their actions demonstrate the transformative power of love and the importance of putting others first. These themes resonate deeply with the audience and contribute to the episode’s emotional impact.
A Lasting Impact
“The Growing Good of the World” remains a fan favorite episode because it represents a significant turning point in Anne and Gilbert’s relationship. It’s a moment of genuine connection and emotional vulnerability that resonates with viewers on a deep level. The episode’s impact is lasting, shaping the trajectory of their relationship and paving the way for their eventual romance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Was Anne attracted to Gilbert before “The Growing Good of the World”?
Yes, there were definite signs of attraction prior. Her reactions to his presence, subtle jealousies, and moments of shared understanding all pointed towards developing feelings. However, she actively suppressed these feelings, clinging to her past grievances and perhaps fearing vulnerability.
FAQ 2: Why did Anne initially dislike Gilbert?
Initially, Anne disliked Gilbert due to his teasing about her red hair. This seemingly trivial incident was compounded by Anne’s sensitive nature and her desire to be accepted for who she was. His actions, though likely innocent, triggered deep-seated insecurities and created a lasting resentment.
FAQ 3: How does Gilbert feel about Anne before this episode?
Gilbert’s affection for Anne is apparent much earlier in the series. He shows consistent admiration for her intelligence, spirit, and individuality. He attempts to connect with her on multiple occasions, often facing rejection or misinterpretations of his intentions.
FAQ 4: What specifically about Gilbert’s actions in this episode makes Anne realize her feelings?
It’s Gilbert’s selfless dedication to helping others during the influenza outbreak, coupled with his postponement of his own education to focus on medicine, that truly impresses Anne. She witnesses his unwavering commitment and recognizes his genuine compassion.
FAQ 5: Is this the only episode where Anne displays romantic feelings for Gilbert?
No, there are other instances where Anne’s feelings surface. However, “The Growing Good of the World” is the episode where she consciously acknowledges and grapples with the reality of her attraction to Gilbert.
FAQ 6: How does the influenza outbreak contribute to their relationship?
The outbreak serves as a catalyst, forcing Anne and Gilbert to work closely together under stressful circumstances. This shared experience fosters a deeper connection and allows them to see each other in a new light. The vulnerability and desperation of the situation break down barriers and reveal their true feelings.
FAQ 7: What happens to their relationship immediately after this realization?
While Anne realizes her feelings, she doesn’t immediately confess them. The episode concludes with a subtle shift in their dynamic, a newfound awareness and respect between them. The path to their romantic relationship is still unfolding.
FAQ 8: Are there any book parallels to this episode in Anne of Green Gables?
While the series expands upon the source material, the underlying themes of Anne and Gilbert’s evolving relationship are present in the books. The series dramatizes their growing connection and amplifies the impact of events that contribute to their eventual romance. The book series culminates in a similar realization of their feelings and their commitment to each other.
FAQ 9: How does Anne’s character arc contribute to her realization about Gilbert?
Anne’s journey from a proud and headstrong orphan to a more mature and understanding young woman is crucial. As she grows, she learns to see beyond surface appearances and appreciate the qualities of others. This maturation allows her to finally recognize Gilbert’s true worth.
FAQ 10: What are some of the key visual cues in the episode that hint at Anne’s change in feelings?
Subtle visual cues like lingering glances, softened expressions, and Anne’s physical proximity to Gilbert during moments of crisis all contribute to the portrayal of her evolving feelings. The camera angles and music also play a role in emphasizing the emotional weight of their interactions.
FAQ 11: What are some common themes in literature that this episode explores in Anne and Gilbert’s relationship?
The episode explores classic literary themes such as the “enemies-to-lovers” trope, the power of selfless acts in fostering love, and the importance of shared experiences in building strong relationships. Their story highlights the transformative power of love and the journey of self-discovery.
FAQ 12: How does this episode impact the rest of the series in terms of their romance?
“The Growing Good of the World” sets the stage for the subsequent development of Anne and Gilbert’s romantic relationship. It marks a turning point in their dynamic, paving the way for future interactions and ultimately leading to their eventual union. It shows Anne is finally accepting her feelings and maturing in her understanding of love.