Hardy, Thomas
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Works by Hardy, Thomas
Gabriel Oak
A skilled shepherd and farmer, who becomes Bathsheba's loyal friend and eventual husband.
"Hard work, honesty, and a deep connection to the land are the most important values in life. He believes in duty and responsibility, and always strives to do what is right, even when it is difficult."
Bathsheba Everdene
A beautiful and independent young woman who inherits a farm and becomes the mistress of her own destiny.
"Personal freedom and independence are paramount, but she also values social respectability and material success. She grapples with the conflict between her desires and her duties, and often struggles to make the right choices."
Jude Fawley
An ambitious working-class man striving for education and social mobility.
"Education and self-improvement are the keys to a fulfilling life, though this belief is constantly challenged by his circumstances."
Susanna Florence Mary Bridehead
Jude's cousin, a free-thinking and unconventional woman.
"Personal freedom and intellectual honesty are paramount, even if they conflict with societal norms and religious dogma."
Tess Durbeyfield
The novel's tragic heroine, a young woman of humble origins with a noble lineage.
"Tess believes in the inherent goodness of people and the possibility of redemption, but struggles to reconcile these beliefs with the harsh realities of her life and the judgement of society."
Angel Clare
Tess's idealistic but flawed husband, a clergyman's son who rejects traditional religion.
"Angel believes in individual freedom, social equality, and the inherent goodness of nature. However, his adherence to abstract principles often blinds him to the complexities of human experience and the needs of those closest to him."
Alec d'Urberville
Tess's seducer and later, a religious convert.
"Alec is ultimately self-serving, seeking pleasure and control above all else. His religious conversion is more of a performance than a genuine transformation, and his actions are driven by ego and a desire to possess Tess."
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