Tess of the d’Urbervilles: Wordsworth Classics

About Tess of the d’Urbervilles

Thomas Hardy's compelling Victorian classic, "Tess of the d’Urbervilles," introduces us to Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman from a poor, dissipated village family who discovers a potential lineage to the ancient d’Urberville family. Set against the vivid backdrop of Hardy’s fictional Wessex, Tess embarks on a poignant journey in search of respectability, only to find her fortunes fluctuate dramatically, leading to a narrative that assumes the profound proportions of a Greek tragedy.

This powerful novel delves deep into Tess's complex relationships with two very different men, exploring her relentless struggle against the rigid social mores of rural Victorian England and the pervasive hypocrisy of the era. First published in 1891, its challenging subtitle, "A Pure Woman," sparked controversy and condemnation for its perceived immorality and pessimism. Hardy masterfully critiques the double standards of his time, crafting one of the most enduring and compelling stories in English literature, whose timeless appeal continues to resonate with readers today.

Key Details

• Author: Thomas Hardy
• Publisher: Wordsworth Editions
• Format: Paperback, 384 pages
• Language: English
• Published: 1992
• ISBN: 9781853260056

Order from BookClub.com.mt — Malta and Gozo's online bookstore.