Children can relate to Wilbur's innocent, naive character, which is dependent on his relationships with other characters in the novel. Yet as time passes and Wilbur grows older, his character matures and evolves from this childlike nature to the role of an adult.
             Being the runt of the litter was supposed to end Wilbur's short lived life. However, with Fern's bravery, standing up to her father not only saved but more importantly prolonged Wilbur's life. Fern shows a child's perspective on death when she tells her father he is being unfair. She thinks that every life on earth is precious and important and should be given a second chance. "The pig couldn't help being born small, could it? If I had been very small at birth would you have killed me?" (3). Wilbur then depends on Fern's character and relies on her as not only a friend, but also a mother figure. When Wilbur first moves away, he feels lonely when Fern doesn't come visit and when she does, he feels sad when she leaves. This portrays an extremely dependent side of Wilbur's character, showing that he is needy of Fern, who seems to have many priorities in her life besides Wilbur.
             Wilbur becomes very sad when his loneliness is all he thinks of. The rainy weather ruins his plans for the day and his bitter barn-mates disappoint Wilbur by not playing with him and therefore satisfying him. Wilbur begins to understand that Fern has other places to be and that in order to keep himself happy and content he must make new friends. Charlotte, a spider who lives in the barn, senses Wilbur's sadness and reaches out to him, providing a friendly atmosphere. Charlotte becomes a close companion to Wilbur, teaching and showing him things many others wouldn't waste their time with. Wilbur then confides in Charlotte for advice and for a shoulder to cry on, as he and Fern have grown apart with time. Charlotte becomes ...