Magic and THE SECRET GARDEN [ Edited ]

[ConnieAnnKirk]

Some of our discussions in other threads have brought up the question of the use of magic, if any, in The Secret Garden.  This also suggests that we consider whether the novel is to be read realistically, or whether it might be more appropriately called a fantasy.  Is the garden itself a magical place?  How did you read it?

Message Edited by ConnieK on 07-21-2008 11:37 AM

[Everyman]

Or if not a fantasy, perhaps an allegory, or parable?

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ConnieK wrote:

Some of our discussions in other threads have brought up the question of the use of magic, if any, in The Secret Garden.  This also suggests that we consider whether the novel is to be read realistically, or whether it might be more appropriately called a fantasy.  Is the garden itself a magical place?  How did you read it?

Message Edited by ConnieK on 07-21-2008 11:37 AM

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[Choisya]

Yes, I think the garden is intended to be magical and a place where renewal and perhaps resurrection takes place, especially in Colin.  Both Mary and Colin are like plants stunted in growth and like the plants themselves, they eventually thrive on all the nurturing they are given by Dickon and others.  There are frequent references to the garden being like a fairy tale and there is also magical chanting to help Colin get well again.  The allegories can either be religious and reminiscent of Christian beliefs in the omnipresence of God and the power of prayer or of Naturism and more pagan beliefs. 

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ConnieK wrote:

Some of our discussions in other threads have brought up the question of the use of magic, if any, in The Secret Garden.  This also suggests that we consider whether the novel is to be read realistically, or whether it might be more appropriately called a fantasy.  Is the garden itself a magical place?  How did you read it?

Message Edited by ConnieK on 07-21-2008 11:37 AM

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[ConnieAnnKirk]

I looked at your link, Choisya.  Do you see "magic" in the garden as equaling something close to the divine in Nature, in the pagan mindset?

~ConnieK

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Choisya wrote:

Yes, I think the garden is intended to be magical and a place where renewal and perhaps resurrection takes place, especially in Colin.  Both Mary and Colin are like plants stunted in growth and like the plants themselves, they eventually thrive on all the nurturing they are given by Dickon and others.  There are frequent references to the garden being like a fairy tale and there is also magical chanting to help Colin get well again.  The allegories can either be religious and reminiscent of Christian beliefs in the omnipresence of God and the power of prayer or of Naturism and more pagan beliefs. 

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ConnieK wrote:

Some of our discussions in other threads have brought up the question of the use of magic, if any, in The Secret Garden.  This also suggests that we consider whether the novel is to be read realistically, or whether it might be more appropriately called a fantasy.  Is the garden itself a magical place?  How did you read it?

Message Edited by ConnieK on 07-21-2008 11:37 AM

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