The Theme of Parenthood and Care

Explores the various forms of parenting in the story—neglectful, absent, and nurturing—and how the children find surrogate parents.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Neglectful Parents

Neglectful Parents Mary's Mother Mrs. Lennox was a beautiful socialite who had no interest in her daughter. She handed Mary to servants and rarely saw her. Mary grew up without love. Mr. Lennox Mary's father was busy and ill. He also ignored her. Mary was an inconvenience, not a child to be cherished. The Result Mary became selfish and sour because she was never taught to love. Neglect is a form of abuse that leaves deep scars.

Absent Father: Archibald Craven

Absent Father: Archibald Craven Grief-Stricken Mr. Craven could not bear to look at Colin because he reminded him of Lilias. He abandoned his son emotionally and physically. Material Provision He provided doctors, nurses, and luxuries but no love. Colin was raised by servants who feared him. The absence of a father's love left Colin emotionally starved. The Cost Colin's illness was partly caused by this neglect. He needed a father's reassurance, not just medical care. Mr. Craven's absence was a wound.

Surrogate Mother: Susan Sowerby

Surrogate Mother: Susan Sowerby A Mother to All Susan Sowerby has twelve children but still has room in her heart for Mary and Colin. She sends food, advice, and love. Maternal Wisdom She understands children intuitively. She knows that Mary needs freedom and Colin needs hope. Her letter to Mr. Craven is an act of maternal care. The Embrace When Colin says he wishes she were his mother, Susan embraces him. She tells him his own mother is in the garden. She provides the maternal love both children lacked.

Father and Son Reunited

Father and Son Reunited Mr. Craven's Return Mr. Craven comes back to Misselthwaite and finds Colin healthy. He embraces his son and weeps. The years of absence are forgiven. A New Relationship Colin walks beside his father, no longer an invalid. Mr. Craven is proud. They begin to build a real father-son relationship. The Garden as Parent The garden has acted as a parent to both children, nurturing them back to health. Now the human parents step in. The theme of care is resolved.

Mary's childhood in India

the ten years after Lilias's death

throughout the story, especially near the end

the final scene