A Character Study of Damon Wildeve -Return of the Native

Considering the techniques used by Hardy to represent his character’s passions are an important part of understanding their thought processes. Hardy often relates his characters to their surrounding natural landscape, thereby integrating the backdrop to the story with the participants in it. For example, Wildeve’s name conjures images of the wild terrain of the heath and this reflects his passionate and impulsive nature.

Another technique Hardy employs in constructing an initial image of Wildeve is by using the hearsay of other minor characters. It is through a discussion among the heath-folk that Wildeve’s name is first introduced to the reader.

‘To give him his due he’s a clever learned fellow in his way…An engineer-that’s what the man was, as we know; but he threw away his chance…His learning was no use to him at all.’

This gradual unfolding of information draws the reader’s attention and we look more closely for those clues that will provide further insight into Wildeve’s character. As we approach the discussion concerning

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Despite his reassurance she detects a distinct undercurrent of uncertainty in his promise. They however do not seem to perceive his cold response towards them. We may even assume that Thomasin is experiencing anxiety in marrying a man she does not love.

Wildeve’s aloof superiority towards the heath-folk further highlights his narcissism. Thomasin, however, does not wish to acquire compassion for her distress, and is shown therefore to possess a greater dignity than Wildeve. The women seen to appreciate Wildeve’s impetuosity and passionate temperament claiming: ‘A hundred maidens would have had him if he’d asked ’em,’ however the men seem to affront their opinion stating: ‘Dids’t ever know a man, neighbour, that no woman at all would marry?’ Wildeve’s paradoxical nature is also reinforced by Hardy’s own words:

‘Altogether he was one in whom no man would have seen anything to admire, and in whom no woman would have seen anything to dislike. We may assume that the intense abhorrence Wildeve and Mrs Yeobright feel for one another further jeopardises the forthcoming union of marriage. She has had to forgo the notion of love as something ‘pretty and sweet’ and is instead prepared to marry Wildeve more for her Aunt’s sake than her own. The word ‘darling’ is positioned at the end of the sentence, as if an afterthought, again lacking in sincerity. ’

Wildeve plays with Thomasin’s feelings. Self-pity is an unattractive trait of his character. Although Thomasin has had a tiresome and emotional journey his first words to her lack real warmth and feeling:

‘Thomasin, then has reached home. He does not feel the burden of his promise and acts solely to please his own desires. ’

Hardy’s narrative is integral to developing Wildeve’s character. His demeanour contrasts greatly with their exuberance and genuine feeling.

Common topics in this essay:
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Approximate Word count = 1045
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

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