The Return of the Native · Chapter
V: An Old Move Inadvertently Repeated explained
Eustacia, living with her grandfather after leaving Clym, is deeply unhappy.
What happens
Eustacia, living with her grandfather after leaving Clym, is deeply unhappy. Charley tries to cheer her by building a bonfire on November 5th, which inadvertently signals Wildeve. Wildeve arrives, and they discuss her misery; he offers to help her escape to Paris. Eustacia agrees to signal him if she decides to accept his help.
Themes in this chapter
Isolation and Loneliness
Eustacia's profound isolation and despair are highlighted; she feels trapped in Egdon and yearns for escape.
Love and Marriage
The strained marriage between Eustacia and Clym, and the lingering connection between Eustacia and Wildeve, are explored.
Fate and Destiny
The accidental bonfire signal and Wildeve's prompt response suggest a fateful rekindling of their relationship.
Characters to notice
- Eustacia Vye
Living with her grandfather, deeply unhappy, contemplates escaping to Paris with Wildeve's help.
- Damon Wildeve
Responds to the bonfire signal, offers to help Eustacia escape, expresses remorse for her unhappiness.
- Charley
Builds a bonfire to cheer Eustacia, inadvertently signals Wildeve, devoted to her well-being.
- Captain Vye
Mentions the anniversary of meeting Venn, comments on Eustacia's past choices.
- Thomasin Yeobright
Seen in the distance carrying her baby, referenced by Charley.
Key passages
“you are in great misery; I see it in your eyes, your mouth, and all over you. My poor, poor girl!”
Wildeve tells Eustacia he can see she is deeply unhappy.
Wildeve expresses pity and concern for Eustacia's state.
“I did not light it!”
Eustacia insists the bonfire was not her doing.
Eustacia denies intentionally signaling Wildeve.
“Help me to get to Budmouth harbour without my grandfather's or my husband's knowledge, and I can do all the rest.”
Eustacia asks Wildeve to help her escape to Budmouth secretly.
Eustacia plans to flee to Paris via Budmouth.