Themes: Culture Clash
In Tess's time, the surge of industrialization in cities was negatively impacting life in rural areas. Hardy explores this theme in several ways. The clear distinction between the countryside (seen as positive) and the city (viewed as negative) is reflected in Tess's last names. When Tess represents pure innocence, she carries the surname "Durbeyfield," suggesting she is "of the field." The name "d'Urberville," which merges "urban" and "village," is linked to a crumbling ancient lineage, symbolizing decline and decay. Angel's moral downfall takes place when he is "nearly entrapped" by an older woman in London. As Angel and Tess transport milk to the train from Talbothays, Hardy observes, "Modern life stretched out its steam feeler to this point three or four times a day, touched the native existences, and quickly withdrew its feeler again, as if what it touched had been uncongenial." Hardy's choice of the word "feeler" compares the train to an insect, conveying his contempt for its invasion. Later, he describes the thresher at Flintcomb Ash as "the red tyrant" and notes "that the women had come to serve" it. As traditional practices fade away, people increasingly serve machines rather than one another.
Expert Q&A
What does Hardy's "ache of modernism" mean in "Tess of the d'Urbervilles"? How does modernism affect Tess?
The "ache of modernism" in "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" refers to the disillusionment with traditional values and the challenges posed by the Industrial Revolution and Social Darwinism. Modernism affects Tess by subjecting her to social and economic upheaval, loss of individuality, and moral condemnation. These forces lead to her tragic fate, including her abandonment by Angel and eventual murder of Alec.
In Tess of the d'Urbervilles, how does Hardy present the relativity of moral values and law versus nature?
Thomas Hardy explores the relativity of moral values and the conflict between man-made laws and natural laws through Tess's experiences. Tess perceives herself as guilty due to societal norms about pre-marital sex, yet the natural world sees no transgression. The novel highlights how human laws are artificial constructs, often at odds with nature's values, suggesting that Tess, while condemned by society, remains innocent in the eyes of nature.
The depiction of Victorian life and societal ills in Tess of the d'Urbervilles
Tess of the d'Urbervilles depicts Victorian life and societal ills by showcasing the harsh realities faced by women, the rigid class structure, and the double standards in morality. Tess's struggles highlight the limited opportunities and societal judgments imposed on women, while the novel also critiques the injustices and hypocrisies of the Victorian social order.
The influence of Tess's noble lineage on her character depiction and the novel's commentary on social stereotypes
Tess's noble lineage significantly influences her character depiction, highlighting the novel's commentary on social stereotypes. Despite her noble ancestry, Tess remains a victim of social prejudices, illustrating the harsh realities faced by lower-class individuals. Her lineage contrasts with her social status, emphasizing the novel's critique of rigid class structures and the often arbitrary nature of social hierarchies.
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