Main Text
Explore 7 main texts related to Tess of the d'Urbervilles. Each section contains the full literary work.
Tess of the d’Urbervilles Key Facts
Tess of the d’Urbervilles is a famous novel by Thomas Hardy. In this section, we will know several key information about the novel.
Key Facts
Full Title: Tess of the d’Urbervilles: A Pure Woman Faithfully Presented Author: Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) When Written: 1887-1891 Where Written: Dorchester, England Published: 1891 Genre: Victorian Novel; Tragedy; Social Realism Time Setting: 1870s
Pl...
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Tess of the d’Urbervilles Summary
Phase the First: The Maiden
John Durbeyfield Hears About Family Lineage: The story begins with a poor man named John Durbeyfield. He is Tess’s father. One day, he is walking back home from work. He is tired as usual. On the way, he meets Parson Tringham, the local clergyman. Tringham stops John and tells him surprising news: the Durbeyfield family is actually descended from an old noble family cal...
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Tess of the d’Urbervilles Themes
Themes
Injustice and Social Criticism : In “Tess of the d’Urbervilles,” Hardy shows how unfair society is. Tess is a victim of Alec’s crime, yet people blame her instead of supporting her. She is judged for being “impure,” while men like Alec and Angel are easily forgiven. Society is harsh to women and the poor, but soft to the rich and powerful. Hardy criticizes this injustice through Tess’s life...
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Tess of the d’Urbervilles Characters
Characters
Main Characters
Tess Durbeyfield – The protagonist and tragic heroine. A poor country girl. Innocent and hardworking. Life treats her cruelly, though she does no real wrong. She is a pure woman. Angel Clare – Son of a clergyman. Honest but proud. Wants to be a farmer, not a priest. He loves Tess but fails to support her when she needs him most.
Alec d’Urberville – A rich and selfish...
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Tess of the d’Urbervilles Literary Devices
Literary devices are essential parts of a literary work. In this section, we will focus on several important symbols of the novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles.
Symbols
D'Urberville Name: Symbolizes false aristocracy and social aspirations. White: Represents Tess's innocence and purity. Red: Symbolizes passion, sensuality, and violence. Death of Prince: Symbolizes the misfortune of Tess' family. Natu...
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Tess of the d’Urbervilles Quotes
Quotes
“You are the lineal representative of the ancient and knightly family of the d’Urbervilles…”
Exp: Parson Tringham tells John Durbeyfield that they are actually from a noble family called the d’Urbervilles. After hearing this, he becomes proud and lazy. Later, Tess’s parents send her to Alec d’Urberville’s family to seek help.
“‘Tis all my doing—all mine!’”
Exp: Here, Tess is blaming he...
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Notes
Explore 24 detailed notes related to Tess of the d'Urbervilles. Each note provides in-depth analysis, explanations, and critical insights.