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Tess of the d'Urbervilles

by Thomas Hardy

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Discussion Topic

Alec vs. Angel in Tess of the d'Urbervilles

Summary:

In Tess of the d'Urbervilles, Alec and Angel represent contrasting influences on Tess's life. Alec is self-serving and manipulative, pursuing Tess obsessively without genuine concern, while Angel initially appears caring but ultimately fails Tess by abandoning her and being unforgiving. Both men contribute to Tess's victimization by fate, as Alec uses her physically and Angel emotionally. The debate over who is worse depends on perspective, but Tess's actions suggest Alec is more detrimental. Suggested essay titles highlight themes of agency, temptation, and fate.

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What are the similarities and differences between Alec and Angel in Tess of the d'Urbervilles?

By "true faces" if you mean what are Alec and Angel's true intentions or character, they are the following.

Alec certainly does not sincerely care about anyone else but himself.  He seeks pleasure, and Tess is simply another pawn in his quest. Later in the novel, while Tess seems to mean something more to him, it is more of an obsession with her than it is concern for her or a true appreciation of her character.

Angel truly does care for Tess and others and is not completely wrapped up in his own goals.  In the end, he demonstrates some of his honor by taking care of Tess's sister.

While Angel would not physically rape Tess as Alec does, he is guilty of using Tess, thus his similarity to Alec.  Hardy uses the two men--though quite different in their natures and in the feeling they inspire from Tess--to demonstrate that...

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Tess is a victim of fate.  Even when she meets someone whom she cares deeply for (Angel), fate allows him to use her emotionally and to drain all hope from her.

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What's a catchy title for an essay comparing Alec and Angel in Tess of the d'Urbervilles?

The best way to decide on a title is to look at your thesis and your examples. Are you simply comparing and contrasting the facts given from the book, or are you also required to prove that one man has more influence over Tess's agency than the other? Answering these questions will help to create a title that is not only catchy, but also goes along with your essay. Look at each character's behavior when she or he is around the other. It seems like it is easier for Tess to control her appetites and passions when Angel is around rather than when Alec is around. Alec represents temptation whereas Angel represents purity and respectability. Whichever way you go, here are a few suggestions for titles:

1.  Tess's Inability to Control Her Fate Between Two Men

2. Alec and Angel: The Choice between Two Passions

3. Alec or Angel? Tess's Struggle for Agency

4. In a Man's World, a Woman has No Agency

5. Alec or Angel? Fate's Role in Tess's Agency

Again, it really depends on what your essay is comparing and contrasting. Without knowing that, it is difficult to give suggestions. But hopefully the above-mentioned title might lead you to one that will please you.

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