On the Theme of Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure

Abstract

Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure got the most attention of the critical world in the nineteenth century of Britain. The theme was always regarded as the embodiment of original sin, pessimism and voluntarism. However, when the theme is analyzed again, it will be found something totally different. Hence, three-phase patterns are to be singled out for a case study in order to shed light upon some facts and conclusions. The first stage is the expression of optimism from the perspective of symbolism; the second stage is the representation of conflict between character and environment in light of Darwinism; the third stage is the exploration of rationality from the viewpoints of religion and feminism. What can be learned is that the story is meant to show readers the kindness tendency, the courage to face the harsh reality and a sense of rationality.