# Faith vs. Skepticism in The Return

> Theme guide for The Return by Walter de la Mare.

Characters like Mr. Bethany represent faith and belief in the supernatural, while others like Danton embody skepticism, creating a tension between rational explanation and spiritual acceptance.

## Where it surfaces

- [Epigraph](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_return_se/chapters/epigraph): The warning against 'tempting contagion' implies a moral or spiritual caution, reflecting a tension between faith in goodness and skepticism of the world.
- [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_return_se/chapters/v): Mr. Bethany refrains from saying 'God knows best,' revealing a tension between religious platitude and genuine pity.
- [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_return_se/chapters/x): Mr. Bethany argues for faith in Lawford's identity despite the inexplicable change, while Danton represents skeptical doubt.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_return_se/themes/faith_vs_skepticism
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_return_se/themes