Tom is widely thought of in his community of Little Weirwold to be a grumpy recluse. What evidence in the exposition hints at Tom’s inherently kind and gentle ways, which are initially masked by his gruff manner?

Describe why Tom feels less afflicted with grief at the loss of his wife and child at the end of the novel. Use textual evidence in your answer.

The novel emphasizes the lasting impact of trauma but also stresses the rehabilitative effect of love; which of these conflicting forces is represented as stronger and more impactful in the novel? Justify your answer using textual evidence.