The Return Of The Native

Focusing on the consequences of romantic idealism, the story revolves around Clym Yeobright, who returns to his native Wessex after time in Paris, only to find himself entangled in an unhappy marriage. The narrative explores themes of personal entrapment and the pitfalls of marrying for the wrong reasons, illustrating how individuals can create their own emotional prisons. Published in 1878 in the magazine Belgravia, this novel showcases Hardy's keen insights into human relationships and societal expectations.