Chapter 3 Summary - The Selfish Giant

In Chapter 3 of "The Selfish Giant," the story continues with the giant returning from his long journey. He finds the children playing in his beautiful garden and becomes angry, chasing them away and erecting a wall to keep them out. With the children gone, the garden falls into perpetual winter, and the giant is left alone in his selfishness and misery.

The Giant's Return
The chapter begins with the giant returning after seven years to find children playing in his garden. He is furious and drives them away, building a wall to prevent them from entering again. The giant's actions depict his selfishness and lack of compassion for others.

The Consequences of the Giant's Actions
After the giant drives away the children, the garden falls into an eternal winter. The trees refuse to bloom, and the birds stop singing. The giant is left feeling cold, lonely, and miserable within the confines of his own garden. This highlights the consequences of his selfishness and the impact it has on both himself and the surrounding environment.

The Change of Heart
As the giant experiences the desolation of his garden, he begins to realize the error of his ways. He recognizes the beauty and joy that the children brought to the garden and regrets his decision to drive them away. The giant's change of heart is evident when he sees a little boy crying because he cannot reach the branches of a tree. The giant helps him by breaking down a section of the wall and allowing the children to enter the garden once again.

The Return of Spring
As soon as the children reenter the garden, spring returns. The trees blossom, flowers bloom, and birds sing joyfully. The giant's act of kindness and selflessness brings back the beauty and vitality to the garden, symbolizing the power of love and compassion.

In Chapter 3 of "The Selfish Giant," the consequences of the giant's selfishness are explored, leading to his eventual change of heart. The chapter highlights the importance of kindness and the transformation that can occur when one learns to put others before oneself.