Tess of the d’Urbervilles · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy.

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Chapter 1
Explanatory Note to the First Edition
Thomas Hardy explains the publication history of the novel, which appeared in serialized form in The Graphic, Fortnightly Review, and National Observer, and is now presented complete as originally written. He defends the sincerity of his work and its truthful depiction of life, quoting St. Jerome to justify revealing uncomfortable truths.
Chapter 2
Epigraph
The epigraph quotes Shakespeare, suggesting a theme of sheltering a wounded or dishonored name, foreshadowing Tess's plight.
Chapter 3
Tess of the d'Urbervilles
The opening of the novel introduces Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman from a poor rural family, whose father learns of their noble ancestry. This discovery sets in motion a series of events that lead Tess to seek out the wealthy d'Urberville family, where she meets the manipulative Alec d'Urberville, ultimately leading to her seduction and the tragic consequences that follow.
Chapter 4
Phase the First: The Maiden
The Durbeyfield family learns of their noble ancestry, leading Tess to visit the d'Urberville estate where she meets Alec. After a series of events, Alec seduces Tess, and she returns home pregnant. The chapter ends with the death of her baby.
Chapter 5
I
John Durbeyfield, a humble haggler, learns from Parson Tringham that he is the last lineal descendant of the ancient and noble d'Urberville family. Elated by the news, he adopts the title 'Sir John' and sends a boy to order a carriage and inform his wife, while his daughter Tess participates in the women's club-walking in the village.

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Explanatory Note to the First Edition

Epigraph

Tess of the d'Urbervilles

Phase the First: The Maiden

I