Anne with an E

The narrative relies on an intersectional lens, immediately introducing the struggles of oppressed groups. The story highlights the historical persecution of Indigenous peoples (Mi'kmaq) through forced religious conversion and residential schools, framing white civilization as an oppressive force. The local community is depicted as judgmental and prejudiced, ostracizing Anne for her orphan status and non-conformity. The show introduces a side character, Mary, a 'single working black woman' whose community is contrasted favorably against the bigoted attitudes of the white Avonlea women.

The traditional, historical Canadian home-culture of Avonlea is consistently framed as oppressive, unenlightened, and in need of radical transformation. The central conflict of the season is Anne's struggle against the 'form and custom' of her own community, which are portrayed as ignorant traditions of the past. Heroes in the story are defined by their rejection of these traditions, and major progressive characters, like the schoolteacher, are ridiculed by the townsfolk for modern attire and independent thought.

The adaptation explicitly positions itself as a liberal feminist text, using Anne's story to campaign for 'gender parity' and female autonomy. Female fulfillment is centered on education, career, and intellectual pursuits, while the traditional path of marriage and domesticity is often condemned or portrayed as an escape from one's true potential. Positive female characters are celebrated for defying traditional gender norms (Miss Stacey wears trousers and rides a bicycle), while conservative women who adhere to gender roles are often depicted as gossiping, judgmental antagonists.

The theme of alternative sexuality is established in Season 1 through the character of Josephine Barry, who is noted in commentary as being an 'unapologetic lesbian.' Though the overt focus is primarily on her long-term companionship and less a lecture on gender theory, the introduction of a non-normative sexual identity is present as a progressive theme within the rigid setting.

The show critiques traditional Christianity and its institutions, portraying the church community as a source of judgmentalism, hypocrisy, and 'hateful comments' that cause Anne distress. The show contrasts rigid, formal religious practice (represented by Marilla's adherence to tradition) with Anne's highly individualistic, personal, and nature-based spirituality. A priest's comments about women in the home are explicitly rejected by the narrative's feminist ideology. The function of traditional religion is often to represent the backward, restrictive forces of the community, though faith itself is not completely vilified.