Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles is praised for its rich narrative and tragic heroine, depicting rural England with evocative prose. Critics admire its emotional depth and social critique. However, some find fault with its melodramatic elements and perceived pessimism. Overall, it remains a compelling exploration of injustice and resilience.

Readers who appreciate intricate character studies, the exploration of social injustices, and tragic narratives will enjoy Tess of the D'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy. Fans of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights and Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations will find its Victorian-era setting and themes compelling.

Tess of the D'Urbervilles follows Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman who becomes an unwed mother after meeting the wealthy Alec d'Urberville. She moves on to work as a dairymaid and falls in love with Angel Clare, but her past catches up with her, leading to tragic consequences. The novel explores themes of social stigma, gender, class injustice, and the inevitability of fate. References to rape are included.

Melancholic / Bittersweet / Mysterious / Contemplative / Dark

Thomas Hardy

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Tess of the D'Urbervilles Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Maiden”

Part 1 Tess of the D'Urbervilles Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Maiden No More” - Part 3: “The Rally”

Parts 2-3

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Parts 2-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Consequence”

Part 4 Tess of the D'Urbervilles Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Woman Pays”- Part 6: “The Convert”

Parts 5-6

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Parts 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Fulfilment”

Part 7 Tess of the D'Urbervilles Part 7 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Character Analysis

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Themes

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Tess of the D'Urbervilles Essay Topics

Tess of the D'Urbervilles

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Tess of the D'Urbervilles?

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Book Details