We studied the exposition , or Act I, which introduces the setting and the characters. We took turns reading certain dialogue and analyzed the introduction of the lock and key motif dramatized when Annie Sullivan 's teacher describes Helen as a treasure locked into a safe. We then discussed how both Helen and Annie are "locked", Helen physically, Annie ,emotionally, due to the death of her brother. Sofia perceptively discussed how Annie Sullivan and the character, Marilla , in Anne of Green Gables, are both emotionally stunted by prior experiences. We surmised that in the play, perhaps Helen will play the role Anne played in the novel, and teach Annie Sullivan how to love again. We further examined the family conflicts in the Keller family dramatized by James Keller's hostility toward Helen and by the almost tangible tension between James and his father. Last, we noted how Helen's actions in the play convey to the audience - even without dialogue- Helen's deep desire to communicate with the outside world.