The Return · Theme
The Supernatural and Possession
How The Return develops The Supernatural and Possession.
The narrative delves into supernatural forces, including the idea of possession by a historical figure (Nicholas Sabathier), and the characters' attempts to understand the change through spiritual or occult explanations.
Where it surfaces
- IX
Lawford speculates about the dead trying to return, and Herbert's reaction to Lawford's face hints at supernatural transformation.
- XII
Herbert theorizes that Sabathier's spirit may have possessed Lawford's body, and describes a ghost that fades into living persons, delving into supernatural possession.
- XIII
The fear of the churchyard, the mysterious French book, and the sense of an intangible adversary suggest supernatural elements.
- XV
The chapter is steeped in supernatural dread, with Lawford feeling a malevolent presence and discussing the ghost of Sabathier, suggesting a theme of possession or haunting.
- Chapter XVII
The discussion of Sabathier's ghost and the haunting of Herbert's house keeps the supernatural theme present, though Herbert attempts to rationalize it.
- XXII
Sheila's revelation of the portrait and the 'Voice' speaking from Lawford highlight the theme of demonic possession and supernatural influence.