Thomas Hardy a pessimist or a realist?
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
Would you call Hardy a pessimist? Justify your answer with reference to Tess of the d’Urbervilles.
Or, Discuss Hardy’s pessimistic view is evident in Tess of the D’Urbervilles.
Or, Would you call Thomas Hardy a pessimist or a realist? Give reasons for your answer in the light of Tess of the D’Urbervilles.
Or, Do you like to consider Hardy a pessimist? If so, argue.
Thomas Hardy‘s (1840-1928) “Tess of the D’Urbervilless,” published in 1891, is a novel that unmistakably reflects the author’s pessimistic view of life and society. Hardy employs various narrative elements throughout the story to highlight human existence’s inherent darkness and tragic nature. Below is a discussion of how Hardy’s pessimistic perspective is evident in the novel:
The Tragic Fate of Tess: The novel’s central theme is Tess’s tragic fate. From the beginning, Hardy portrays Tess as a victim of circumstances beyond her control. Her life is marked by suffering, hardship, and emotional turmoil. Despite her efforts to improve her situation, Tess’s path is ultimately filled with tragedy and despair. It emphasizes life’s cruel and unpredictable nature.
The Role of Fate and Chance: Throughout the novel, Hardy emphasizes the role of fate and chance in shaping human lives. Tess’s discovery of her noble lineage, which leads her to seek the D’Urbervilles family for assistance, is a turning point that sets the tragic events in motion. Hardy suggests that external forces beyond control determine life’s outcomes.
Societal Injustice and Hypocrisy: Hardy exposes the injustices and hypocrisy prevalent in Victorian society. Tess’s social status and gender make her vulnerable to exploitation and judgment by others. Angel’s double standards and Alec’s preying nature reinforce Hardy’s pessimistic view.
Despite having had affairs himself, Angel struggles to forgive Tess’s past. 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 showcases a society where the disadvantaged suffer and the privileged escape consequences.
Nature’s Indifference to Human Suffering: Nature, a recurringUnlock this study guide now