Who are the main characters of The Secret Garden?

Mary Lennox

Mary is the main character in the story, and in the beginning of the novel is described as a spoled, sickly, and surly child who never smiles and often throws herself into fits of anger. At only 10 years old, her parents died of cholera and she is sent from India (where she had been raised) to Yorkshire England to live with an Uncle whom she has never met. She is of course quite miserable and on the voyage to England all the other children would tauntingly sing "Mistress Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?" at her. She was really rather miserable, lonely, and hostile... until she discovers the garden and begins to make it her own.

After befriending Dicken and Colin, and after she begins growing and tending the garden; Mary's character transforms into that of a caring, imaginative young girl.

Colin Craven

Colin is Mary's cousin and has been bedridden for most of his life. His mother is also dead (Mary's aunt) and he has since developed a morbid obsession with death. He is convinced that he is going to die (in the near future) and is not allowed to go outside, or walk. Mary convinces him that there is nothing wrong with him- and he too begins to grow. First, he grows emotionally- as he was a spoiled, stubborn, demanding, and pig-headed child- and after his curiOSity in the outside world is piqued; he eventually learns how to walk while spending time in the garden with Mary. He also becomes slightly less pompous and reveals that all he has ever wanted was the love of his father.

Dicken

Dicken is Martha (the maids) younger brother who spends a great deal of time with Mary. He is very in touch with nature and has a very soft, caring disposition. It was Dicken who assured Mary that the garden was very much alive, and helped her learn to help it grow. He is very calm, and gentle in nature and becomes very close with Mary sparking jealousy in Colin.

Mrs. Medlock

Is Colins caretaker and nurse. She is over-bearing and over-protective of him and does not allow him to develop normally for fear of his death. It was ultimately Medlock that caused Colin to be as sickly as he was. Had Colin been able to romp and play as a child he likely would have led a normal life, however her over-protective, matronly persona prevented any growth or development. She has devoted her life to preserving and nurturing Colin, and when Mary puts him at risk- her displeasure and hatred are unbearable. She can be described as stern, over-bearing, and rigid, though deep down her heart is in the right place.