Hardy: Tess of the D'Urbervilles

This book offers a fresh approach to Hardy's novel, highlighting its modern qualities. Dale Kramer reexamines the main characters and investigates Hardy's handling of the plot and the novel's characteristics as a tragedy. He gives special consideration to Tess's search for her identity, and the role of her sexuality in this process. He also discusses the work's rural background, its place in Victorian literature, and its influence and reception.