The primary objective of this M.A. Thesis is to provide an in-depth comparison of Heidi and Anne of Green Gables by: (1) revealing through a literary and social analysis, the more somber aspects of these novels. (2) examining the multi-dimensionality of the characters found therein and (3) investigating the possible reasons for the mythical and legendary proportions of these tales. In doing so, I hope to clarify the misconception that these novels, as children's books, are based solely on idealistic and light-hearted themes. Further, I would like to answer, in part, why these two orphan tales have remained so universally popular for so long, whereas other similar books have not. But most of all, I hope to prove that children's literature has significant literary merit, worthy of academic interest and investigation.

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