Can you trace any symbolic elements in the story and their relevance to the plot?

Can you trace any symbolic elements in the story and their relevance to the plot?

The changeling twins and Lady Hawley's death were mentioned in the first pages of the book in the background of Thornwood House. It wasn't until later in the book that I saw the significance. In fact, I had pretty much forgotten that until the change in George at the party.

The Hawthorn tree. The symbolism to the name "Thornwood house" it was a thorn in the side of the Hawley family when they wanted the land cleared - Hawthorn trees have thorns and the seeds containing cyanide associated with the idea of the changeling. Also the Hawthorn tree berries, leaves and flowers associated with the idea of healing the heart.

By cutting down the sacred Hawthorn tree, the Hawleys set in motion the unfortunate luck visited on the family. Everyone in the village believed in the curse and it was perhaps perpetuated by the belief. Or, it was coincidence.

Tillieh, you are a much deeper reader than I am. I did not even know about the Hawthrone tree's seeds! There's one down the street from my house! And vivianh, I do not believe in coincidences. The Hawley's crested their own misfortune by discounting what the town people wanted and believed.