The Return of the Native · Chapter
VI: Yeobright Goes, and the Breach Is Complete explained
Clym Yeobright leaves his mother's house after a painful parting, determined to marry Eustacia Vye.
What happens
Clym Yeobright leaves his mother's house after a painful parting, determined to marry Eustacia Vye. He secures a small, secluded cottage for their future home. Mrs. Yeobright, devastated by the estrangement, receives a visit from Thomasin, who tries to console her. Thomasin also reveals her financial troubles with Wildeve, and Mrs. Yeobright offers her a share of the spade-guineas left by her uncle. The chapter ends with Wildeve learning of a cart from Mistover, hinting at ongoing connections.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this scene, the narrative climax occurs because Clym’s psychological recovery and newfound taciturnity are…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Isolation and Loneliness
Mrs. Yeobright's despair and Clym's solitary journey highlight the emotional isolation resulting from their breach.
- Love and Marriage
Clym's commitment to marry Eustacia despite his mother's opposition, and Thomasin's troubled marriage with Wildeve, explore the complexities of love and marital duty.
- Pride and Reputation
Mrs. Yeobright's pride prevents her from reconciling with Clym, and Thomasin hesitates to ask Wildeve for money due to pride.
Characters to notice
- Clym Yeobright
Leaves his mother's house to prepare a home for Eustacia, showing determination and sorrow.
- Mrs. Yeobright
Grieves deeply over Clym's departure and feels betrayed, but tries to maintain composure.
- Thomasin Yeobright
Visits Mrs. Yeobright to offer comfort and discusses her financial difficulties with Wildeve.
- Damon Wildeve
Appears briefly at the Quiet Woman, observing a cart from Mistover.
Key passages
“Mother, I am going to leave you”
Clym announces his departure to his mother.
This marks the final break between Clym and Mrs. Yeobright.
“I am going to be married on the twenty-fifth.”
Clym informs his mother of his wedding date.
He sets a specific date, emphasizing his commitment to Eustacia.
“O Thomasin, do you think he hates me? How can he bear to grieve me so, when I have lived only for him through all these years?”
Mrs. Yeobright expresses her heartbreak and sense of betrayal.
She feels her maternal sacrifices are unappreciated.
“It is only that he loves her too well.”
Thomasin explains that Clym's actions stem from his love for Eustacia.
She tries to soften Mrs. Yeobright's view of the situation.
