Tess of the d'Urbervilles

The first phase in Tess of the D'Urbervilles is called "The Maiden" because it represents a time when young women, like Tess, navigate the complexities of emerging sexuality and societal expectations...

Hardy presents women as homemakers and family caretakers in the novel. Tess takes on responsibility for her family and feels guilty for events that are not necessarily her fault. Hardy makes it clear...