Tess of the D’Urbervilles

In most literary works, the author of the novel uses specific themes to portray characteristics and particular views on a significant aspect in the plot. In Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Thomas Hardy explores and develops the theme of fate in the character of Tess Durbeyfield. Tess Durbeyfield represents this theme of fate by the various ways in which Hardy has suggested that fate has contributed to her tragedy. Although Tess's tragedy was caused by events in which Tess has no control over, it is possible that her suffering was the consequence of fate.

From the beginning of the novel, this theme of fate is presented. Jack Durbeyfield, Tess’s father, finds out that he is the last remaining member of the once illustrious D’Urberville clan. Jack’s pretentious attitude makes him go to the bar and spend the little bit of money that he owns. As a result of this, he cannot complete his job during the early morning. Tess being a respectable daughter agrees to go on this journey for her father because of his drunken inability. Since Tess was not accustomed to traveling in the early morning, with barely any light, she does not see a mail van coming at her in the opposite direction. The mail van and Tess’ wagon collide and Prince, the family horse, is wounded and, eventually, was killed. The theme of fate appears when Tess feels guilty and needs to find work in order to support her family, especially after their beloved, hard-working horse is killed. When Tess finds work at the D’Urbervilles ranch, she meets a man named Alec D’Urberville who becomes, inevitably, the long-term cause of her tragedy. At first, Tess feels uncomfortable around Alec and the sexual innuendoes he gives, but over time she gets used to them, which unfortun...

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...lec because he has caused too much heartbreak in her life already that she wasn’t going to be able living unless she knew that his previous actions had had their consequences. Unfortunately, Tess is sentenced to death because of this murder and Tess’ tragic life ends with her knowing that the man who scarred her life is no longer alive. The novel ends with Angel and Tess at the Stone Hedges reunited until the police take her in and execute her.

The theme of fate is portrayed by the character of Tess D’Urberville which exhibited and developed the way that fate added to her tragedy. Thomas Hardy used this theme in his novel, Tess of the D’Urbervilles. This novel’s ideas can be applied to everyday life because fate surrounds all of us one way or another; its how one chooses to react to what is presented in front of them that can make fate chose its course.