Tess of the d’Urbervilles is a novel by Thomas Hardy published in 1891. Set in rural England, the story follows the life of Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman from a poor family who discovers that she is a descendant of the famous “Family d’Urberville.
Tess’s family sends her to work for the wealthy Mrs. D’Urberville, where she is seduced by Alec D’Urberville, a rich and violent man. The results of this meeting change the rest of Tess’s life.
Hardy explores the themes of social class, morality, and gender roles through the story of Tess.
Tess’s struggle as a young woman trying to navigate a male-dominated world is central to the novel. Hardy portrays Tess as a tragic figure, a victim of circumstances beyond her control, whose destiny is determined by the oppressive social values of her time.
Despite its controversial subject matter, Tess des d’Urbervilles was a hit & best seller when it was first published.
However, it also faced significant backlash from critics who saw it as sexually suggestive and immoral. Over time, the novel has become popular among readers, and is considered one of Hardy’s best works.
Tess of the d’Urbervilles A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy
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