Hardy uses a third person point of view which, while generally limited with a focus on Jude, occasionally shifts to other "main" characters in the story. This technique is unusual and gives the reader insights into other characters as well as Jude, without being as overwhelming or all-telling as third person omniscient perspective. Thus, an intimate perspective is maintained, drawing the reader in to the group of characters and providing a wider range of attachments to make. Opening the story to more characters without providing every thought, feeling, etc., allows the reader to feel both close to and distant from the characters at the same time. It also provides the reader with greater understanding of character motivations and dispositions.