The Return: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Return: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the complex dynamics surrounding Arthur Lawford, a middle-aged Englishman who experiences a mysterious transformation into the figure of Nicholas Sabathier, an eighteenth-century individual who tragically took his own life. This transformation occurs as Lawford grapples with personal and familial issues, maintaining his consciousness while navigating the challenges of his new identity. His wife, Sheila Lawford, struggles with her husband’s change, ultimately choosing to distance herself rather than confront the unfamiliarity of his altered form.
Supporting characters such as Herbert, a reclusive neighbor who recognizes Lawford’s transformation, and his sister Grisel, who shares a profound connection with Lawford, add layers to the exploration of love and identity. Meanwhile, Arthur’s teenage daughter, Alice, represents a bridge between familial loyalty and personal understanding, choosing to support her father in secrecy despite her mother's apprehensions. The narrative is further enriched by the Reverend Mr. Bethany, who, while disturbed by the events, offers compassion and maintains vigil during Lawford’s return to his original self. Together, these characters illustrate themes of transformation, empathy, and the complexities of human relationships amidst extraordinary circumstances.
The Return: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Walter de la Mare
First published: 1910
Genre: Novel
Locale: England
Plot: Ghost
Time: Nineteenth century
Arthur Lawford, a middle-aged Englishman who, while resting in an ancient churchyard, finds himself strangely turned into the shape of Nicholas Sabathier, an eighteenth century Britisher who had committed suicide on the Eve of St. Michael and All Angels in 1739. Lawford keeps his own mind and has strange feelings about himself, as well as difficulties with his family and friends. On the anniversary of Sabathier's death, however, he is returned to his own shape once again.
Sheila Lawford, Arthur's wife. Though she believes the stranger she sees is really her husband in a different shape, she refuses to stay with him at night as a wife and insists on leaving the house. She finally leaves him alone in the house for several days to wrestle with his problems.
Herbert Herbert, a stranger in the neighborhood, a bookish recluse. He identifies Lawford's new shape as that of Nicholas Sabathier. During his transformation, Lawford spends a great deal of time with Herbert and his sister Grisel, both of whom are quite sympathetic.
Grisel Herbert, Herbert's sister. She and Arthur come to realize that in another life they have previously loved. She gives Lawford the feeling when he is with her that he is fighting some strange spirit, and yet he takes great comfort in her company.
Alice Lawford, Arthur's teenage daughter. While she faints from shock when first she sees her transformed father, she goes to him in secret, against her mother's wishes, to tell him that she sympathizes and hopes that all will turn out well.
The Reverend Mr. Bethany, rector of the parish. Although he is horrified at what happens to Lawford, he remains sympathetic. On the night that Lawford returns to his own shape, the rector arrives at the Lawford home to keep vigil.