Considered a radical writer, Hardy included the lower social classes and the plight of women, and he wrote about them in a provoking and defiant manner. Scientists, such as Charles Darwin, and social thinkers, such as John Stuart Mill, affected his thoughts and writings. ... There is contradiction of social class between Alec and Tess, and Alec is the chief culprit in Tess" misfortune. Angel is a symbol of purity and the capitalistic social moralities. ... In this novel, readers can not only enjoy the timeless tale of the maiden who goes to the wood and comes back a maiden no more; but also p...

• Word Count: 1221
• Approx Pages: 5