Representation in media

 

    "Anne with an E," is the adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s book "Anne of Green Gables," the show presents a take on representation through its character development and narrative choices. The show goes beyond the boundaries of its historical setting by focusing on themes of identity, belonging, and social norms. Two major characters, Anne Shirley and Diana Barry are key examples of how the series tackles issues related to gender and community while also giving a critical view on race and sexuality. Through thoughtful construction and selection, the creators not only challenge stereotypes but also give a voice to historically underrepresented groups in the film such as women, LGBTQ+, people of color, and a range of body types/sizes.  

Image of some of the shows cast-

    Anne Shirley is a fierce embodiment of resilience and individuality, the representation used for her is primarily othering and stereotypes. The visual choices, such as the vibrant colors of her clothing and the soft lighting that often surrounds her, accentuate her imaginative spirit and longing for acceptance. However, the show also explores her struggles with gender expectations, especially in the late 19th century. In many scenes, Anne is positioned against a backdrop of traditional roles, emphasizing the constraints placed upon women of her era. The series boldly addresses Anne’s experiences with bullying and ostracization due to her more unusual appearance, adoption, and quirky/curious personality. This draws attention to the impact of societal norms on young girls. The character development she has allows viewers to engage with the complexities of female identity and rising above representations often seen in similar media.  

Anne Shirley-

    Diana Barry is Anne's wealthy and beautiful best friend, she further illustrates the theme of female friendship and loyalty despite being so different from Anne. The main representation for her is stereotypes. While she initially portrays a usual best friend, the series dives deeper into her own struggles with family expectations and societal pressure. The choice to explore Diana’s family background, which is a narrative often not done in most of these traditional adaptations, allows for a richer understanding of her character. The representation of their friendship challenges the typical depictions of female relationships as competitive, instead showcasing a bond built on mutual support. This selection of narrative focus creates a sense of community among young girls, illustrating how friendship can provide strength against societal pressures.  

Diana Barry-

    Additionally, "Anne with an E" isn't afraid to address issues of race and sexuality, showcasing characters like Cole Mackenzie, a queer character whose journey reflects the struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals in a prejudiced society. The representation of Cole’s identity is not exoticized, instead it’s quietly weaved into the fabric of the story, making his experiences relatable rather than extremely othered. Another character is Sebatian Lacroix who is mistreated due to being a person of color which is looked down on in Anne’s community at the time. His journey demonstrates the racial struggles faced and rather than exoticizing the character he has a very normal life with natural struggles. This inclusive approach not only enriches the narrative but also reflects a broader spectrum of societal realities. The show’s ability to challenge stereotypes and present diverse perspectives ultimately highlights its commitment to representing historically hidden voices, allowing viewers to experience a more meaningful dialogue about identity and acceptance.  

Cole and Sebastian-

    "Anne with an E" serves as an extreme commentary on representation, amazingly navigating the complexities of gender, community, and identity. Especially through the lens of Anne and Diana. The series not only challenges traditional narratives but also magnifies the importance of inclusivity and authenticity. As the characters grapple with their identities against a backdrop of societal expectations, viewers are able to reflect on their own understanding of belonging and acceptance. The show stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of representation in media, shaping not only how stories are told but also how audiences connect with the experiences of others. 

 

Here you can watch the trailer for the shows first season: https://youtu.be/S5qJXYNNINo