Bertrand is a significant character in Jonathan Auxier's "The Night Gardener," portrayed as a man burdened by overwhelming debt and deep family disdain. His desperate circumstances drive key elements of the story's eerie plot.
Character Overview
Bertrand is depicted as a weak, stuttering individual who struggles immensely with his personal and financial life. He faces constant disrespect and resentment from his family, particularly from his rigid and cold wife, Constance, who holds no regard for him.
His primary motivation stems from crippling debts incurred through speculation. This dire financial situation forces him into desperate measures, including taking money from the mysterious tree, which subsequently places him at the mercy of dangerous criminals.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Disposition | Weak, stuttering, and prone to desperation. |
| Family Life | Disrespected by his family; his wife, Constance, is cold and deeply resents him. |
| Financial State | Burdened by significant debts from speculative ventures. |
| Vulnerability | Subject to the will of criminals due to his actions and financial plight. |
Role in the Narrative
Bertrand's desperation for money directly ties into the supernatural elements of "The Night Gardener." His entanglement with the mysterious, money-giving tree is a central conflict, highlighting the dark consequences of greed and human weakness when confronted with otherworldly influences. His struggles amplify the themes of sacrifice, family dynamics, and the price of one's desires within the unsettling atmosphere of the novel.
