Final answer:
J.M. Barrie modeled Peter Pan after his brother, David, who died young, and the character symbolizes eternal childhood. The Llewelyn Davies family children also influenced Peter's adventurous traits, and the character has become timeless figures in literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
J.M. Barrie modeled the character of Peter Pan after his older brother, David, who died in an ice-skating accident the day before his 14th birthday. This tragic event deeply affected Barrie's mother, and David remained a boy in her mind forever, as he would never grow up. This notion struck a chord with Barrie, eventually leading to the creation of Peter Pan, a boy who resides in the whimsical realm of Neverland and famously refuses to grow up.
Peter Pan is a symbol of eternal childhood and represents the innocence and escapades of youth. The idea was further influenced by Barrie's close relationship with the Llewelyn Davies family, particularly the five sons who inspired the adventurous and imaginative elements of Peter's character. Barrie became the boys' guardian following the deaths of their parents, and his interactions with the family offered him a deep wellspring of inspiration for his writing on the subjects of childhood and imagination.
The character of Peter Pan has since become one of the most endearing and timeless figures in children's literature. He is the embodiment of the desire to remain young and carefree, untouched by the responsibilities and complexities of adult life. By capturing such a universal longing, Barrie's creation has continued to resonate with audiences for generations.