Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is Clym Yeobright's profession upon returning to Egdon Heath?
What is Clym Yeobright's profession upon returning to Egdon Heath?
Who does Thomasin Yeobright initially plan to marry?
Who does Thomasin Yeobright initially plan to marry?
What role does Diggory Venn play in the story?
What role does Diggory Venn play in the story?
Why does Eustacia Vye hold an aloof demeanor towards the heathfolk?
Why does Eustacia Vye hold an aloof demeanor towards the heathfolk?
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What motivates Eustacia to pursue a relationship with Clym?
What motivates Eustacia to pursue a relationship with Clym?
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What significant conflict arises between Clym Yeobright and his mother?
What significant conflict arises between Clym Yeobright and his mother?
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What does Clym study intensely, which leads to a health issue?
What does Clym study intensely, which leads to a health issue?
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What does Wildeve propose to Eustacia on Guy Fawkes night?
What does Wildeve propose to Eustacia on Guy Fawkes night?
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What event leads Clym to feel guilty in 'The Return of the Native'?
What event leads Clym to feel guilty in 'The Return of the Native'?
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Which character's actions are portrayed as reckless during the rescue attempt?
Which character's actions are portrayed as reckless during the rescue attempt?
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How does Hardy's portrayal of nature in the novel reflect its double-faced nature?
How does Hardy's portrayal of nature in the novel reflect its double-faced nature?
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What does the title 'The Return of the Native' primarily signify?
What does the title 'The Return of the Native' primarily signify?
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In terms of narrative perspective, who can be argued to be the true protagonist?
In terms of narrative perspective, who can be argued to be the true protagonist?
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What thematic element does 'The Return of the Native' explore regarding Clym's character?
What thematic element does 'The Return of the Native' explore regarding Clym's character?
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What ultimately happens to Eustacia and Wildeve during the climax of the novel?
What ultimately happens to Eustacia and Wildeve during the climax of the novel?
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Which statement best describes the overall style of 'The Return of the Native' in relation to realism?
Which statement best describes the overall style of 'The Return of the Native' in relation to realism?
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What prompts Mrs. Yeobright to walk home in misery?
What prompts Mrs. Yeobright to walk home in misery?
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How does Clym react to his mother's death?
How does Clym react to his mother's death?
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What is Eustacia's internal conflict regarding Wildeve's offer?
What is Eustacia's internal conflict regarding Wildeve's offer?
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What action does Eustacia take as she decides on Wildeve's offer?
What action does Eustacia take as she decides on Wildeve's offer?
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What causes Mrs. Yeobright's death?
What causes Mrs. Yeobright's death?
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What is Clym's misconception regarding Eustacia after his mother's death?
What is Clym's misconception regarding Eustacia after his mother's death?
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How does Eustacia feel as she walks to meet Wildeve?
How does Eustacia feel as she walks to meet Wildeve?
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What motivates Wildeve to visit Eustacia on Guy Fawkes night?
What motivates Wildeve to visit Eustacia on Guy Fawkes night?
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Study Notes
The Return of the Native - Plot Summary
- The novel is set on Egdon Heath in southwestern England.
- The main character, Clym Yeobright, returns to the area after a successful career as a jeweler in Paris to become a schoolmaster.
- The narrative begins on Guy Fawkes Night, with Diggory Venn, a reddleman, traveling the countryside.
- Venn is transporting Thomasin Yeobright, who was slated to marry Damon Wildeve but had a delayed marriage license.
- Eustacia Vye, a beautiful but eccentric woman, lives in a lonely house on the heath.
- Eustacia and Wildeve were previously lovers, but it was not a lasting relationship.
- Clym's return sparks interest in Eustacia once more but she also falls in love with Clym.
- Clym and Eustacia's relationship is fraught with difficulties, with Mrs. Yeobright objecting.
- They eventually get married after several obstacles.
- Thomasin gives birth to a daughter.
- Clym and Eustacia live together in a small cottage and Clym's dreams turn to becoming a schoolteacher.
- Eustacia tries to escape the heath and run off with Wildeve.
- Unfortunately, Eustacia drowns.
- Wildeve tries to save her and drowns as well.
- Diggory Venn saves Clym from drowning.
- Clym is accused by Wildeve of murdering his wife and mother.
- Clym becomes devastated by all of the events.
The Return of the Native - Discussion Questions
- The title "The Return of the Native" signifies the return of Clym Yeobright to his native town.
- The novel explores the meanings of "return" and "native", focusing on self-identity, place, time, and choice.
- The novel details the complex relationship between man and nature, showing man in conflict with the natural world they are a part of.
- The novel depicts the tragedy of individuals who break free from established conventions.
- Clym is often seen as the traditional protagonist.
- But a strong argument could be made that Eustacia is the story’s true protagonist.
- The novel is viewed as a realistic novel due to its detailed observations of character and social interactions.
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Description
Explore the intricate plot of Thomas Hardy's 'The Return of the Native'. Follow Clym Yeobright as he returns to Egdon Heath, navigating complex relationships, love, and societal expectations. Delve into the lives of Eustacia Vye and other key characters as their intertwined fates unfold.
