Main characters in-depth analysis - Sykalo Eugen 2024
Matthew Cuthbert: A Gentle Soul Who Finds Joy in Unexpected Places
Anne of Green Gables by Montgomery
- Character Introduction:
Name: Matthew Cuthbert. "Matthew" evokes kindness and stability, reflecting his gentle nature.
Physical Description: A tall, lanky man with kind eyes and a shy demeanor. His appearance suggests his reserved nature and connection to the land.
Occupation/Social Status: Farmer, considered an eccentric by the townsfolk due to his introspective nature. His position emphasizes simplicity and connection to nature.
Initial Impressions: Shy, quiet, and easily flustered by social interactions. Initially portrayed as lacking confidence and assertive voice.
First Actions: Argues for keeping Anne despite the mistake, highlighting his compassion and open-mindedness.
- Character Development:
Motivations and Desires: Deeply desires companionship and love, yearning for a family beyond his quiet existence.
Internal Conflict: Struggles with expressing his emotions openly due to shyness and social awkwardness, leading to internal frustrations.
External Conflict: Faces societal judgement for embracing nonconformity and defying expectations.
Driving Force: A deep-seated kindness and love for those in need, coupled with a hidden romantic spirit.
Relationships and Interactions:
- Marilla Cuthbert: Their shared sense of loneliness fosters a close bond, allowing him to express his affection more openly.
- Anne Shirley: He becomes her confidante and champion, cherishing her individuality and imagination.
- Other characters: Represents kindness and acceptance amidst a community bound by traditional expectations.
Impact on Others: Inspires kindness, acceptance, and appreciation of individuality through his gentle actions and quiet love.
Social Dynamics: Initially considered an outsider, becomes an embodiment of compassion and understanding, defying social norms.
Growth and Transformation:
- Gains confidence in expressing his emotions, especially toward Anne, showcasing personal growth.
- Embraces unexpected change and experiences joy through Anne's presence, defying his reserved nature.
- Opens up to the possibility of love and companionship, finding fulfillment beyond societal expectations.
Final State: Remains kind and introspective, but demonstrates increased confidence and emotional openness, showcasing self-discovery and personal growth.
III. Deeper Analysis:
Symbols:
- Green Gables: Initially represents his quiet life, later symbolizes unexpected love and acceptance.
- Nature: Reflects his introspective nature and connection to the world beyond social norms.
Foreshadowing: His initial kindness towards Anne hints at his hidden capacity for love and potential for change.
Irony: The shy man considered an outsider becomes a beacon of acceptance and understanding.
Authorial Intent: Montgomery likely uses Matthew to explore themes of hidden kindness, defying social expectations, and finding joy in unexpected connections.
Genre Conventions: Fits the coming-of-age genre by showcasing personal growth, embracing individuality, and finding unexpected connections.
Overall Message: Encourages kindness, open-mindedness, and appreciating the extraordinary found in ordinary people.
- Youth-Oriented Engagement:
- Relatable Situations: Facing shyness, navigating social anxieties, valuing different perspectives.
- Moral Dilemmas: Choosing kindness over social norms, standing up for what's right even when unpopular.
- Engaging Language: Focus on the contrast between Matthew's initial shyness and his growing confidence and affection towards Anne.
- Open-Ended Questions: How does Matthew change throughout the story? What qualities make him a good friend? How can we overcome shyness and build meaningful connections?