“Tess is more sinned against than sinning.” Do you agree?
Tess of the d'Urbervilles is a notable literary work by Thomas Hardy. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
Answer
“Tess is more sinned against than sinning.” Do you agree?
The statement “Tess is more sinned against than sinning” reveals the complex moral landscape in Thomas Hardy‘s (1840-1928) novel, “Tess of the D’Urbervilles” (1891). This statement suggests that Tess, the protagonist, is subjected to more injustices and external pressures than she is morally responsible for her actions. In this essay, we will explore the various facets of Tess’s life and the events that unfold in the novel, analyzing whether she is a victim of circumstances.
Social Class and Birthright: Tess Durbeyfield’s life begins in poverty and obscurity. She was born into a working-class family. She is thrust into a world of privilege and expectations when her family learns of their distant connection to the aristocratic D’Urberville family. Tess has no control over her birthright, and the burden of her family’s dreams and aspirations is placed upon her shoulders. It makes her more sinned against by the accident of her birth.
Manipulation by Alec D’Urberville: Alec d’Urberville, a wealthy and entitled man, takes advantage of Tess’s innocence and vulnerability. He seduces her under pretenses. It leads to her loss of innocence. Tess is not morally offended by the traumatic event that changed her life.
Abandonment by Angel Clare: Angel Clare, Tess’s love interest, initially appears to be a morally upright character. However, when he learns of Tess’s past, he abandons her. Angel says:
“Forgiveness does not apply to the case. You were one person; now you are another. My God—how can forgiveness meet such a grotesque—prestidigitation as that?”
It shattered her hopes for a better life. Tess’s love for Angel is sincere, and her willingness to confess her past shows her desire for honesty. Angel’s abandonment leaves her ruined and betrayed.
The Double Standard of Morality: Tess’s “sin” of having had a sexual encounter before her marriage is viewed through a harsh lens of Victorian morality. However, the double standard of the time allows men like Alec to escape societal judgment while Tess bears theUnlock this study guide now