Genetic Structuralism Analysis on The Social Class Issue in L. M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables

Abstract

This research focuses on the vivid depiction of the social class dynamic in the novel Anne of Green Gables and the worldview of the author, Lucy Maud Montgomery. The social class in the novel becomes the main issue the thesis focuses on. The issue is examined by utilizing Genetic Structuralism theory by Goldman (1980). I utilize this theory to dismantle the similarities or homologues link between the novel and the social context affecting Anne of Green Gables’ creation. Anne Shirley, the orphan as the main character, her character development is being analysed throughout the novel as well as the other characters through their interaction and description in the narration. The historical background and the story within the narration finally will contribute in finding the worldview. This research found several patterns of social class dynamics through the main character’s journey. The French speaking people as the working-class people become the main finding in this research. The Industrial Revolution drives them to Canada as immigrants which increase to company development as well as to child labors. The second finding is that education can be used to break free from gender stereotype. The last finding is that social class impacts individuals' opportunities and perceptions within their community. The finding above then drives to discover the author’s worldview. Through Anne’s journey, upward social mobility can be achieved by individual agency without economic capacity. This also brings the idea of modernism that more people could gain their ideal of life if only they had the rational capacity in thinking and practicing something. The author’s worldview is this empowerment, which emphasizes the advantages for society as a whole of giving everyone, regardless of background, equality, and access to education.