The Role of the Weather and Seasons

The Secret Garden

Examines how the weather—rain, wind, sun—and the changing seasons mirror and influence the characters' emotional states.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Rainy ArrivalThe Rainy Arrival
The Rainy Arrival A Dreary Welcome Mary arrives at Misselthwaite in a pouring rain. The weather matches her mood—gray and miserable. The rain seems endless. The Wind on the Moor The wind howls across the moor, making strange sounds. Mary is frightened. The weather emphasizes the isolation of the manor. A Symbol of Gloom The rain and wind symbolize the emotional climate of the house. Everything is cold and wet. It will take time for the sun to break through.
The First Sunny DayThe First Sunny Day
The First Sunny Day A Change in the Weather The rain stops, and the sun comes out. The moor looks blue and beautiful. Mary is surprised by the transformation. A Lift in Spirits The sunshine lifts Mary's mood. She goes outside and begins to explore. The weather encourages her to be active. Hope on the Horizon The sunny day marks the beginning of Mary's improvement. The weather is a metaphor for her inner state. Sunlight brings hope.
The Wind That Revealed the DoorThe Wind That Revealed the Door
The Wind That Revealed the Door A Strong Gust A gust of wind blows aside the ivy, revealing the door knob. The wind is an agent of discovery. It uncovers what was hidden. Nature as Helper The weather cooperates with Mary's quest. The wind seems purposeful. Nature is on her side. A Magical Moment Mary sees the wind as magic. The weather becomes part of the garden's mystique. It is a sign that she is meant to enter.
The Long Rainy WeekThe Long Rainy Week
The Long Rainy Week Confined Indoors A week of rain keeps Mary and Colin inside. They spend the time talking and looking at books. The rain forces them to bond. A Productive Confinement Despite the rain, they are not bored. They plan their garden and share stories. The rain is a blessing in disguise. The Sun Returns When the sun finally returns, they are ready to go outside. The rain has prepared them for the next phase.
The Golden AutumnThe Golden Autumn
The Golden Autumn A Perfect Day When Mr. Craven returns, the weather is beautiful. The garden is bathed in golden autumn light. The weather reflects the joy of reunion. The Sun Sets on the Story The story ends with a sense of peace. The weather is calm and warm. Nature itself seems to approve. The Cycle Complete The seasons have turned from winter to autumn. The weather has mirrored the emotional journey. The story ends in harmony with nature.
the night Mary arrives
a few days after Mary's arrival
the day Mary finds the door
after Mary discovers Colin
the final scenes