Concealment in Thomas Hardy's Novel: The Return of the Native

摘要

Throughout the Return of the Native, the author uses concealment as both a plot device and a theme which has tragic results. Concealment creates tension and leads to misunderstandings that cause people to take destructive actions. It also reflects an absence of deep and lasting love, which requires openness and trust. The Return of the Native is a tale that reflects the inability of human nature to change to do the right thing, ending in tragic consequences for all involved.