Healing and personal transformation in frances hodgson burnett's the secret garden (1911)

Abstract

This dissertation explores healing and personal transformation in Frances Hodgson Burnett's The Secret Garden, using literary analysis, historical context of the late Victorian and early Edwardian eras, Burnett's biography, and psychological theories to examine the health state of the primary characters Mary Lennox, Colin Craven, and Archibald Craven. The analysis demonstrates how neglect, grief, and isolation cause their ill-health. It then traces their paths to recovery, through nurturing human companionship, the restorative power of nature, and the symbolic "Magic", Burnett's concept of Divine Grace working through interpersonal love, faith, positive thinking, and nature's vitality. The study concludes that The Secret Garden presents an everlasting view of full healing, demonstrating that these essential elements of recovery remain highly relevant for well-being and the human capacity for renewal in the present day.