An episode that Anne'-swers all your questions!
In Episode 107 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela discuss how autistic traits in Anne Shirley—echolalia, infodumping, emotional intensity, and sensory sensitivities—reflect a deeply relatable neurodivergent experience, and make her one of the most autistic-coded characters in literary history.
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
Anne’s world mirrors many autistic realities: feeling like an outsider, struggling to mask, and being told she's “too much” for simply being herself.
The episode dives into internalized ableism, educational trauma, and the history of the school system during the Industrial Revolution, when factory-model classrooms began shaping conformity.
We examine Anne's friendships, especially her bond with Gilbert, as examples of neurodivergent connections built on mutual understanding and deep focus.
Plus: parallels between Japan’s love for Anne, autistic cultural values, and how Lucy Maud Montgomery may have embedded her own neurodivergence into the character.
“This is the thing - the people who are good at diagnosing autism might not be as neurotypical as they think they are. The neurotypicals tend to be very bad at diagnosing autism.” - Matt Lowry LPP
“When I picture Anne of Green Gables, I picture her surrounded by Kermit the Frog dressed as Clark Gable.” - Matt Lowry LPP
“It’s all very well to read about sorrows and imagine yourself living through them heroically - but it’s not so nice when you really come to have them, is it?” - Anne Shirley
“There’s such a lot of different ands in me. I sometimes think that is why I’m such a troublesome person.” - Anne Shirley
“I have always lived in a world of imagination; I kept it shut up within myself for fear of ridicule.” - Lucy Maud Montgomery
“This is why we get thrown into ‘social skills groups’ and ‘social skills training’ - because neurotypicals want us to be like them instead of acknowledging that we are different and accepting our differences because it’s colonization bullshit.” - Matt Lowry LPP
Did you enjoy this episode? We dive into the neurodivergent themes in Anne of Green Gables, exploring Anne's traits, sensory issues, and the challenges she faces in Avonlea. We discuss how her unique communication style and physical stimming set her apart, while also reflecting on how society views neurodivergence. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!
Show Notes:
“Anne Shirley—Anne of Green Gables and Autism”
A community discussion on Anne’s creativity, emotional intensity, and unique social interactions as possible indicators of autism.
🔗 Read the Reddit thread
📺 YouTube Video:
Autism in Anne of Green Gables
A video essay exploring the autistic traits found in key characters from the classic series.
📝 Article:
Autistic-Coded TV and Film Characters
Features Anne Shirley-Cuthbert (Anne with an E) among several characters interpreted as neurodivergent-coded.
🔗 Read on The Wyrd Sisters
🧠 Medium Article:
Characters That Ping Our NeuroScopes
An insightful look at fictional characters, including Anne, who resonate with neurodivergent experiences.
🔗 Read the Medium piece
📚 Academic Article (PubMed):
"Lucy Maud Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables: An Early Description of ADHD"
Analyzes Anne’s behavior through an ADHD framework, with overlapping traits that may align with autism.
🔗 Read the study on PubMed
💬 Facebook Post by Kristy Forbes (InTune Pathways):
A thoughtful reflection on watching Anne with an E through an autistic lens, highlighting relatable traits and neurodivergent resonance.
🔗 Read the Facebook post
Related Episodes:
Dimensions of Autistic Culture
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