The television series "Anne with an E" first captured the attention of audiences and critics alike when it premiered on CBC and Netflix. Based on the beloved classic "Anne of Green Gables," this reimagining took the story of the spirited orphan and placed it within the complex social landscape of the late 19th century. Understanding when "Anne with an E" was set provides the key to unlocking the rich historical tapestry that defines the show.
Establishing the Historical Timeline
When examining the question of when "Anne with an E" is set, the primary timeline places the events in the late 1890s. Specifically, the first season begins in the year 1896. This specific date is crucial as it situates the narrative in a period of significant transition, bridging the Victorian era and the approach of the 20th century. The choice of this year allows the show to explore themes of tradition clashing with progress, which is central to the story of Anne Shirley’s integration into the conservative town of Avonlea.
The Original Literary Setting
While the original "Anne of Green Gables" novel by L.M. Montgomery was published in 1908, the author deliberately set the story in the 1870s and 1880s. The television adaptation, however, made a deliberate creative choice to update the timeline. By setting the show in the 1890s, the creators were able to incorporate a more progressive view of gender roles and social issues, allowing Anne to be a student at a fictional college, which would have been nearly impossible in the earlier decade depicted in the books.
Seasonal Progression and Time Passage
As the series progressed through its three-season run, the timeline did not remain static. "Anne with an E" is very specific about the passage of time, with each season generally representing one year in Anne’s life. Season two moves the story into 1897, and by Season three, the characters are navigating the complexities of 1898. This gradual advancement allows for realistic character development, showing Anne and her peers aging, maturing, and facing the impending transition to adulthood in a world on the cusp of modernity.
Contextual Historical Events
The show subtly weaves real historical events into its narrative to anchor the fictional story in a specific time. References to the Boer War, which began in 1899, and the growing momentum of the early feminist movement provide a backdrop that confirms the late 1890s setting. These events are not merely background details; they directly impact the characters' lives, from the school curriculum to the societal expectations placed on the students of Avonlea Academy.
The Importance of the Era
Setting the story in the 1890s rather than the earlier period of the book was essential for the show's thematic depth. This era was defined by the tension between rigid Victorian social codes and the emerging voices of individuality and reform. For Anne, a character who embodies pure imagination and outspokenness, this specific historical moment is perfect. It provides the friction necessary for her growth, as she constantly challenges the status quo of a society that is both fascinated and threatened by her uniqueness.
Ultimately, the setting of "Anne with an E" is far more than a simple date; it is the foundation of the show's identity. By anchoring the story in the specific year of 1896 and progressing through the closing years of the 19th century, the series gains a powerful historical context. This timeline allows for a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the painful, beautiful transition from childhood to adulthood against the vibrant tapestry of a world on the brink of change.
