Displays of Affection in Anne of Green Gables Love and expression of love is a central theme in L M Montgomerys novel Anne of Green Gables Anne Shirley is introduced as an emotionally damaged sensitive girl who is desperate for love of any sort When the Cuthberts actually decide to keep Anne despite her not being a boy she is elated Anne Shirley is wanted and accepted for who she is at last However throughout the novel readers note that Marilla Cuthbert treats Anne quite differently than her br