The Complete Works (eBook)

Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) was an English novelist and poet, acclaimed for his vivid portrayal of the rural English countryside and the hardships of the working class. Born in Dorset, which would later become the semi-fictional Wessex of his novels, Hardy drew heavily on his regional experience. His major novels, often described as tragic, combine a keen sense of social commentary with a deep empathy for his characters. Hardy's notable works include 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' (1891), 'Far from the Madding Crowd' (1874), 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' (1886), and 'Jude the Obscure' (1895), all of which are included in 'The Complete Works' of Thomas Hardy. His literary style is marked by a pervasive fatalism, exploring themes of destiny, inevitability, and the constraints of social norms. Moreover, Hardy's work is characterized by his eloquent yet haunting prose and his ability to portray complex relationships against the backdrop of changing times. Though much of his fiction was initially received with controversy due to its critique of Victorian moral norms, Hardy's legacy as a central figure in English literature has endured, cementing his place in the literary canon. His poetry, too, demonstrates his range, often reflecting a more personal and philosophical perspective. Through his extensive and emotionally resonant oeuvre, Thomas Hardy remains a seminal figure whose works continue to be studied, adapted, and celebrated for their profound impact on English literature and society.