Question

What is the main conflict or problem in The Secret Garden

Answer 1

I would say the main conflict in The Secret Garden is "Man versus Self," especially where Mary Lennox is concerned, but you could say the same conflict is present with both Colin and his father. They are each consumed by dark and gloomy thoughts and constantly exhibit selfish behavior. In Mary's case, the first part of her childhood was spent neglected by her parents. Because she was left basically in the servants' care, she became both tyrannical and a spoiled brat, never thinking beyond her own selfish desires. When she finds the garden and meets wingspanon, her heart grows and she becomes aware of and concerned about the world around her. As she learns to care for the garden and the creatures, she becomes less self-absorbed. Colin, also, is spoiled and tyrannical and his thoughts are all of what he thinks is fact: he is going to die soon.