Abstract

Tess of the D’Urbervilles was depicted in a region called the Wessex, which was based on Thomas Hardy’s hometown, and resembled the society of the Victorian Age. Tess, the protagonist of this novel, was born in a poor family, educated with traditional moralities, and fettered by Christian ethics. With the rapid growth of industrialization, capitalists gained fortune in the Victorian society. And with the fortune came the power. The upper and middle classes were highly corrupted. Labor forces were less needed due to the development of machines, thus the lower class faces an ever-growing loss of jobs. Poverty became one of the major social issues in the Victorian Age but was ignored by the government for a long time. They called for restraint while prostitution was commonly seen during that period. Female status was in an all-time low. Under-privileged Tess in this society had to succumb to the powers and the so-called moralities, which eventually led her to death. This thesis discusses the three following issues: social corruption, traditional moralities and sexism, to see how the three factors have a pushing effect to Tess’ tragedy.

Key Words：Tess of the D’Urbervilles; Victorian Society; Traditional Moralities; Sexism

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1  Introduction-1

2  The Corruption of the Capitalists and Twisted Definition of Social Class in     Victorian Age-3

   2.1 Money Versus Blood-4

3  Tess’ Dilemmas in Old Christian Ethics-7

   3.1 Tess’ Sacrifice for the Family-7

   3.2 Tess’ Loss of Virginity-8

4  Ubiquitous Male Dominance-11

   4.1 Alec’s Explicit Dominance over Tess-11

   4.2 Angel’s Implicit Dominance over Tess-12

5  Conclusion-15

Bibliography-16

Acknowledgments-18