Thomas Hardy

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Thomas Hardy Criticism

Thomas Hardy's literary contributions extend far beyond his well-known novels, encompassing a wide array of poetry, plays, and short stories that continue to attract scholarly attention. Initially overshadowed by the popularity of his novels, his poetry has recently been revisited for its philosophical depth, as Dan Jacobson discusses in his critical essay. The evolution of Hardy's critical reception is notable; early moral critiques, such as those commented on by Mary Moss, have given way to more nuanced structuralist and poststructuralist interpretations, with Carl J. Weber's work highlighting these shifts. Feminist and deconstructive approaches have enriched the understanding of Hardy's work, emphasizing elements like his use of everyday objects to convey deeper meaning, a point explored by Norman Page. Furthermore, Hardy's narrative technique involving an observer is analyzed by Julie Grossman, showcasing his innovative style.

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