Thomas Hardy - Tess of the D'Urbervilles (Wordsworth Classics)

"Tess of the D'Urbervilles" by Thomas Hardy is a timeless classic that tells the tragic story of Tess Durbeyfield, a simple country girl whose life is forever changed by a series of unfortunate events. Set in rural England, the novel explores themes of love, fate, and the harsh realities of Victorian society. Tess, a pure and innocent young woman, is sent to work for the wealthy D'Urberville family, where she meets the charming but manipulative Alec D'Urberville. Despite her best efforts to resist his advances, Tess is ultimately seduced and betrayed by Alec, leading to a series of devastating consequences that shape her destiny. As Tess struggles to navigate the complexities of love and morality, she is confronted with the harsh judgment of society and the limitations placed on women in her time. Hardy's powerful prose delves into the depths of Tess's emotions, painting a vivid portrait of a woman torn between her desires and her sense of duty. With its poignant exploration of love and loss, "Tess of the D'Urbervilles" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that continues to captivate readers around the world. Hardy's exquisite storytelling and rich character development make this novel a true masterpiece of English literature.