If I had to answer the question “Who is your girlhood heroine?” I would definitely say “She’s Anne of Green Gables!” A large part of my childhood, and… (I should confess!) part of my adolescence, were affected by this fictional character. Anne of Green Gables was adapted from the popular children’s book written by Lucy Maud Montgomery, who lived during the early 20th century. The book, as the anime, depict the life of Anne, a young orphan. She was sent to 50-year-old siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, instead of the boy the couple asked for. Day after day Anne inspires and captures the attention of Marilla and Matthew, who decide to keep her raise her as if she were their daughter.
My grandparents raised me in a small Italian village, located in the countryside. I lived there until I was 18 years old. I loved outdoor activities and was inclined to day-dreaming. This helps to understand why I identified myself with this fictional heroine…and it explains as well why I attempted to change my hair color…oh my gosh! When I reflect on my fascination with this character I would say that I loved her ingenuity, bravery, sweetness and intelligence.
All in all, those are attributes which I cultivate, even nowadays.
-Annamaria Nizi
Education Intern
Girl Museum Inc.