"The Return of the Native" is a novel by Thomas Hardy, published in 1878. Set in the fictional village of Egdon Heath, it explores the lives of its inhabitants, focusing on the character of Clym Yeobright, who returns home after living in London. The story delves into themes of love, fate, and the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations. The novel also features key characters such as Eustacia Vye, a passionate woman yearning for a more exciting life, and Diggory Venn, a determined reddleman. Their intertwined lives highlight the complexities of human relationships and the impact of the natural environment on personal choices.