The Return of the Native

The Return of the Native

by

Thomas Hardy

The Return of the Native Symbols

Paris

Paris is an idealized wonderland for Eustacia; it represents everything that Egdon Heath is not. She sees it as a modern, stylish, and sophisticated place that is home to people who are higher class…

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Eustacia’s Hourglass

Eustacia’s hourglass represents the time she spends on Egdon Heath, as a well as a countdown to when she might escape to somewhere else. Eustacia often carries around her hourglass when walking around the…

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Clym’s Eyesight

Clym’s declining eyesight is a physical representation of his imperceptiveness. Clym has left Paris for Egdon, where he hopes to open a school despite lacking the necessary skills and funds. Numerous characters mention that…

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