The Trespasser (novel)

The Trespasser is a novel by D.H. Lawrence, published in 1912. It was Lawrence's second published novel, following The White Peacock (1911), and initially titled Nethermere. The novel explores themes of marriage, infidelity, and the complexities of modern love through the story of Siegmund MacNair, a married man, and his passionate yet ultimately destructive affair with Helena Verden.

The narrative delves into the psychological turmoil of the characters, particularly Siegmund's internal conflict between his commitment to his wife and children and his intense attraction to Helena. The Trespasser is notable for its examination of the destructive forces of intellectualism and the failure of communication within relationships. Lawrence's use of symbolism and psychological realism contributes to the novel's exploration of the characters' inner lives and the societal pressures they face. The story culminates in tragedy, reflecting the consequences of the characters' actions and the limitations of their emotional understanding.