The boy in the wheelchair in Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel, The Secret Garden, is Colin Craven.
Understanding Colin Craven's Role in The Secret Garden
Colin Craven is a pivotal character in The Secret Garden, introduced as a frail, temperamental, and often tyrannical ten-year-old boy. He lives in the sprawling Misselthwaite Manor, perpetually confined to his room and a wheelchair, believing himself to be an invalid destined for an early death.
Colin's Background and Initial Condition
Colin is the only son of the reclusive and grief-stricken Master Archibald Craven. His birth coincided with a tragic period for the Craven family, as he was born in the same year that his mother passed away and the beloved secret garden was locked shut. This unfortunate alignment of events contributes to his father's profound sadness and Colin's own perceived fragility. Isolated and constantly doted upon by nervous servants, Colin's early life is marked by hypochondria and a lack of outdoor activity, reinforcing his belief that he cannot walk or lead a normal life.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Colin Craven |
| Parentage | Son of Master Archibald Craven |
| Initial Age | Ten years old |
| Initial Condition | Believed to be a permanent invalid, often confined to a wheelchair, prone to emotional outbursts and convinced he would not live long. |
| Symbolic Birth | Born the same year as Mary Lennox and when the secret garden was locked, representing a period of stagnation and sorrow. |
| Key Transformation | Through friendship, nature, and self-belief, he overcomes his physical and emotional ailments, learning to walk and thrive. |
Colin's Journey and Transformation
Colin's life takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of his cousin, Mary Lennox, at Misselthwaite Manor. Initially hostile towards each other, their shared loneliness and curiosity eventually lead to a profound friendship. Mary, along with the kind-hearted local boy, Dickon, introduces Colin to the wonders of the natural world and, most importantly, the neglected secret garden.
Within the vibrant and healing environment of the garden, Colin begins to challenge his deeply ingrained beliefs about his health. Encouraged by Mary and Dickon, he attempts to stand and walk, discovering that his legs are not as weak as he had been led to believe. This physical awakening is paralleled by a profound psychological transformation. As he gains strength and confidence, Colin sheds his sickly demeanor and tyrannical habits, becoming a healthy, optimistic, and joyful child. His recovery ultimately draws his long-absent father back to Misselthwaite, leading to a poignant family reunion within the revitalized secret garden.
