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Abstract

The present paper analyzes Thomas Hardy’s novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles through a feminist lens, exploring the complex social dynamics that contribute to the tragic fate of the protagonist, Tess. The study examines three primary research questions: the extent to which Victorian society is responsible for Tess’s exploitation, the roles of religious and familial influences in her tragic end, and the application of feminist theory in Hardy’s portrayal of her character. The research delves into the gender inequality present in the novel, highlighting the limited agency of women in Victorian society, and the patriarchal attitudes of Victorian men towards women. Additionally, it discusses the impact of Tess’s social class and family background on her hardships and predicaments. Using a qualitative methodology, this paper provides an in-depth exploration of the societal and personal factors that lead to Tess's downfall, while emphasizing Hardy’s feminist critique of the era’s treatment of women. Ultimately, this study offers new insights into the gendered dimensions of the novel, shedding light on the enduring relevance of its themes.