The Role of the Servants

Examines how the servants—Martha, Mrs. Medlock, Ben Weatherstaff, and others—contribute to the story's events and themes.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Martha as a Bridge

Martha as a Bridge A Friendly Face Martha is the first person to treat Mary with kindness. She talks to Mary as an equal, not a servant. She bridges the gap between Mary and the outside world. Information Source Martha tells Mary about Dickon, the moor, and the secret garden. She provides the information that sets Mary on her quest. A Loyal Ally Martha keeps Mary's secrets and helps her communicate with Dickon. She is a crucial ally in the children's plans.

Mrs. Medlock's Authority

Mrs. Medlock's Authority The Gatekeeper Mrs. Medlock controls access to the manor and its secrets. She enforces Mr. Craven's rules. She is an obstacle to the children's freedom. A Limited Perspective Mrs. Medlock is not malicious but limited. She follows orders without question. She represents the old order that must change. Gradual Softening As the children succeed, Mrs. Medlock softens. She becomes an ally rather than an adversary. Her transformation mirrors the manor's.

Ben Weatherstaff's Secret Loyalty

Ben Weatherstaff's Secret Loyalty A Faithful Servant Ben has served the Craven family for years. His loyalty to Lilias transcends orders. He secretly tends the garden. A Gruff Exterior Ben is surly and blunt, but his actions show deep care. He is a complex character who defies simple categorization. Accepted into the Circle Ben becomes part of the children's secret. His long service is honored. He is a link to the past and a guardian of the future.

The Servants' Gossip

The Servants' Gossip A Chorus of Commentary The servants' hall buzzes with rumors about Colin and the children. Their gossip reflects the household's curiosity. A Source of Information Mary and Colin sometimes learn things from servants' talk. The servants are a network of information. Part of the Happy Ending The servants celebrate Colin's recovery. They are part of the community that is healed. Their joy is genuine.

from Mary's arrival

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over the ten years

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