Themes: God and Religion
The "arbitrary law of society" critiqued by Hardy originates from organized religion. Most of his religious characters are portrayed as devout hypocrites, with the notable exception of Angel's father, who appears genuinely kind-hearted. The local parson's hypocritical behavior compels Tess to bury her child in the cemetery section reserved for drunkards and suicides. Alec's role as a preacher serves as a barely concealed critique of those who adopt religious beliefs for appearances. When Alec encounters Tess again, his true nature is once more revealed. The stifling atmosphere of the Emminster parsonage, home to Rev. Clare and his wife, contrasts sharply with the lively warmth of the Talbothays dairy. In one of the novel's few humorous moments, Angel sits down to dine with his parents and brothers, expecting a meal of black puddings (a sausage made from blood and suet) and mead, gifts from Dairyman Crick's wife when he left the dairy. Instead, he discovers that the food has been given to the poor, and the drink has been saved for its medicinal properties. His disappointment is evident.
Expert Q&A
Discuss the statement: "In Tess of the d'Ubervilles, Tess is more sinned against than sinner."
The statement that Tess is more sinned against than sinner is supported by Hardy's portrayal of her as a victim of societal and cosmic forces. Hardy's subtitle, "A Pure Woman Faithfully Presented," underscores Tess's innocence despite her suffering from rape, abandonment, and societal judgment. Fate and societal double standards relentlessly punish Tess, illustrating her victimhood in a world indifferent to her fate.
Discuss morality and religion in Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
In Tess of the d'Urbervilles, Hardy portrays conventional religion and morality as harsh and destructive. Tess, who is pure-hearted, is condemned by society for being an unmarried mother, despite being raped. Her baby is even denied a church burial. Hardy criticizes the rigid moral code and highlights society's judgmental nature, suggesting that religion should be more forgiving.
How is faith represented in Tess of the D 'Urbervilles, and how might this be interpreted differently in various contexts?
In Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles, faith is depicted through the flawed Christian beliefs of characters like Angel Clare, who fails to embody true Christian values of love and forgiveness. Hardy criticizes organized religion's harsh judgments, exemplified by the burial of Tess's child. Additionally, faith is portrayed in more pagan forms through Mrs. Durbeyfield's reliance on the Complete Fortune-Teller. Hardy's depiction reflects his skepticism towards formal religion and societal norms.
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