Rousseau says, “If we assume man has been corrupted by an artificial civilization, what is the natural state? The state of nature, for which he has been removed? Imagine. Wandering up and down the forest without industry, without speech, and without home.” - Marie Antoinette, 2006.
I wouldn’t necessarily believe everything Briony tells you. She’s rather fanciful.
The happiest part of the story is that Matilda and Miss Honey each got what they’d always wanted. A loving family.