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The Return of the Native

by Thomas Hardy

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Themes: All Themes

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Themes: Naturalism and Determinism

Both critics and general readers often associate Thomas Hardy's perspective with "naturalism" or "determinism." These are variations of the belief that an indifferent or hostile fate controls human life, rendering us unable to change our destinies. This theme is central to novels like Tess of the d'Urbervilles, poignantly expressed in its grim conclusion: "the President of the Immortals, in the Aeschylean phrase, had ended his sport with Tess."...

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Themes: Tragedy and Shakespearean Influence

It's an oversimplification to assume that every work written by Hardy embodies a deterministic perspective, a view he shares with a diverse range of writers like Emile Zola and Frank Norris. Although the poem "Hap" laments the lack of a purposeful adversary, the later poem "Channel Firing" depicts God humorously commenting on history unfolding according to His malevolent design. The clash with a hostile or indifferent "other"—be it god, fate, or...

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Themes: Fate vs. Free Will

The first instance of cruel fate obstructing human intent is evident in the downfall of Clym's ambitious plan to educate the youth of Egdon. This highlights Hardy's theme and the tragic nature of his protagonist, as Clym turns away from material success and social prestige to make a positive impact on his community and their future. To fulfill this goal, he engages in an intense study routine, spending long hours reading in poor lighting to...

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Themes: Character and Destiny

Much like Shakespeare and Aeschylus, whom he emulates in this novel, Hardy sees character as the key determinant of our destinies. However, we do not have the ability to choose our character, implying that our fate is, to a degree, set in stone. Classical arguments against the notion of free will assert that if we cannot choose the tendencies that shape our decisions, we are not truly free. This perspective aligns with the social determinism...

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Themes: Time

The theme of time and its progression is a key element in the novel. Throughout a period of eighteen months, the landscape of the heath remains unchanged. This unchanging nature is reflected in the lives of the inhabitants who have lived there for generations. They continue to uphold long-standing traditions, performing the same wedding ceremonies, harvest rituals, and holiday customs. They even rely on folk remedies, like the traditional...

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Themes: Nature

Hardy opens by detailing the landscape of Egdon Heath before introducing any characters, emphasizing the importance of the natural setting in the narrative. His depiction of the heath is symbolic of its residents—“neither ghastly, hateful, nor ugly: neither commonplace, unmeaning nor tame; but, like man, slighted and enduring.” This suggests that people often mirror their environment.

For instance, the oppressive heat on the August day when...

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Themes: Conscience

In The Return of the Native, the characters are primarily motivated by their own consciences rather than any other factors. Their attempts to steer clear of social conflict are driven not by fear of being judged, but by a desire to prevent causing distress to others. This is evident from the outset, as illustrated by Thomasin’s return following her unsuccessful marriage attempt. Although eloping is regarded as shameful, both Thomasin and Wildeve...

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Expert Q&A

What are the themes of The Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy?

The themes of Thomas Hardy's The Return of the Native include the profound effect of the natural environment on its inhabitants and the mystical bond between people and the land. Egdon Heath, the novel's setting, shapes and shackles its characters, influencing both traditional and modern individuals. The landscape's indifference contrasts with the locals' superstitions and pagan rituals, highlighting their deep, almost pantheistic connection to the soil.

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Themes: Naturalism and Determinism

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