Paddington, Agency, and Authority

Abstract This chapter examines Paddington’s evolving relationship with authority, tracing his movement from powerless child-migrant to symbolic national figure. Drawing on childhood studies, postcolonial theory, and political sociology, it explores how Paddington negotiates institutions of power including the police, the state, the monarchy, and the NHS. Paddington’s “childness” is central to his treatment by authority figures. His small size, innocence, and vulnerability afford him protection,