Gilbert Blythe

Come, I'm Going to Walk Home with You - M.A. and W.A.J. Claus

Gilbert Blythe is a fictional character in Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables series. He is one of the central characters and the primary love interest of the protagonist, Anne Shirley. Gilbert is introduced as Anne's academic rival, but he eventually becomes her closest friend and, later in the series, her husband. His character is pivotal in the development of the series' themes of forgiveness, growth, and true love.

Character Overview

Gilbert Blythe is depicted as handsome, charming, and witty. He is known for his teasing nature, especially towards Anne Shirley, which initially causes a rift between them. Gilbert is also portrayed as ambitious, intelligent, and hardworking, qualities that help him excel in his studies and later in his medical career. Despite his competitive nature, Gilbert is kind-hearted and deeply cares for Anne, even when she rebuffs his initial attempts at friendship.

In the Series

Introduction and Early Rivalry

Gilbert's first appearance is in Anne of Green Gables, where he teases Anne by calling her "Carrots," referring to her red hair. This incident leads to Anne breaking her slate over his head, marking the start of their long-standing rivalry. Despite this rocky start, Gilbert admires Anne's spirit and intelligence, and he makes several attempts to apologize and befriend her.

Friendship and Romance

Over the series, Gilbert and Anne's relationship evolves from rivalry to friendship and eventually to romance. In Anne of Avonlea and Anne of the Island, Gilbert's feelings for Anne become more apparent, and he waits patiently for her to reciprocate his feelings. Their friendship deepens through shared experiences and mutual respect for each other's ambitions and intellect.

Adulthood and Marriage

In the later books, Anne's House of Dreams and beyond, Gilbert and Anne's relationship matures into a deep, enduring love. They marry and start a family, facing life's challenges together. Gilbert's career as a physician is a significant aspect of their life in Glen St. Mary, where they build a home and community.

Themes and Impact

Gilbert Blythe's character is significant in exploring themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the importance of true companionship. His relationship with Anne challenges societal expectations of rivalry and romance, showcasing a partnership based on equality, respect, and support. Gilbert's character has been celebrated for his progressive views on women's rights and education, reflecting Montgomery's own feminist ideals.

Legacy

Gilbert Blythe has become an iconic character in Canadian literature and popular culture, admired for his charm, integrity, and the depth of his love for Anne. He has been portrayed by various actors in film, television, and stage adaptations of the Anne series, each bringing their own interpretation to the beloved character. Gilbert's enduring appeal lies in his complexity as a character who grows from a teasing schoolboy into a compassionate man, embodying the series' themes of personal development and the transformative power of love.