Numerous themes run through Thomas Hardys novel The Return of the Native. They serve as a means of collecting together the different ideas that Hardy wanted to incorporate into the novel, and introduce the main plots. One of the novels central themes is coincidence. It links to most of the other themes and many of the events in the book come about because of a coincidence. An example of this is when Captain Vye happens to meet Diggory Venn and he reveals that he is carrying a woman in his van. The Captains denunciation that it is "That girl of Blooms-End" prompts him to relay this gossip to Eustasia, which sets in motion a chain of events which shape the rest of the plot. Another such instance is when Eustasia happens to pass Susan Nonsuch's cottage whilst Johnny is ill, just as he exclaims "mother I do feel so bad" Susan at that moment looks up and sees Eustasia, causing her superstitious mind to assume she is responsible. However Hardy implies that some of the events put down to coincidence are actually deliberate. Diggory Venns frequent appearances throughout the novel always seem to coincide with moments when Thomasin Yeobright is in trouble. As is later revealed Venn is a rejected suitor of hers, yet far from being discouraged he has vowed to ensure her happiness, even if it does not involve his own, and as such interferes when ever he thinks it is at stake.
             Coincidence is closely related to the theme of fate, which runs throughout the book. When Eustasia, Wildeve and Clym are in the water, the two former, past lovers drown in their pursuit of each other, yet Clym survives, to begin a new life as a preacher. This could be interpreted as fate, as could Susan Nonsuch's burning of the effigy of Eustasia, shortly before she drowns. Venn continually attempts to alter fate by his interference in Thomasin's life, in an attempt ensure her happiness. The death of Mrs Yeobright too is perhaps the result of a twist of fate. If Eus...