Tuesday, January 11, 2011

What is it about Gilbert Blythe?

I'm curious, all of you Anne of Green Gable readers and watchers out there...

What is it that makes Gil so adorably irresistible??



As far as the book goes, he's barely on page, and the vast majority of our exposure to him is through Anne's eyes.  His appearance is mostly glossed over, as Anne is more interested in his mind and the competitive spirit he inspires in her.

We learn, of course, that there is many an Avonlea schoolgirl crushing on Gil, probably because he's so handsome and good-spirited, but Anne is utterly immune.

He saves Anne from near-drowning during her stint as 'The Lady of Shalott' and later, he gives up the position to teach at Avonlea school for Anne so that she can stay at Green Gables.  Otherwise, he's pretty much a mystery.

So...why are we all rooting for him through the book and the movie, mentally castigating Anne for holding such a fierce grudge?  If she could just see the real him and get past the 'Carrots'!

Maybe it's because he so clearly likes and respects Anne...and he sees in her what we all see: a little bit of perfection.  What do you think?

8 comments:

Allie said...

I think I agree with your idea... also, he's dreeeeeeaaamy :)

MCsAngel2 said...

Well, it's not from the book, but how can you resist a guy who interrupts your dance with an imaginary partner to cut in? *swoon*. I think I spent about 15 years being in love with JC! (which happen to be my husband's initials too, coincidentally).

Sarakastic said...

Granted, I don't have red hair, but it always gave me hope for men that Gilbert fell in love with Anne and not Diana or Josie Pie.

Silver Strands said...

I LOVE Gil. Love him. I don't know why ... maybe because he's so human. Anyway, LOVE him :)
oxoxo
Denalee

Stacy said...

Every girl wants a guy who loves her unconditionally.

By the way, I sort of have a similar post to yours up right now. Sorry! I wasn't trying to copy, but I had it partially written when I read yours and figured I'd post it anyway. :)

Anonymous said...

I think you fall in love with him because he's so mysterious to start and so aloof--

Alyssa Goodnight said...

I forgot about the cut in with the imaginary dance partner! That was awesome.

I getcha, Sarakastic. Some men just know what's what.

Oh, yours is good, Stacy! I'm deciding who to pick as I type this.

Meredith said...

I definitely fall for him because he clearly loves Anne but doesn't let her get away with anything. Such a cutie!