The Novels of Thomas Hardy 5 Books Collection Set

Format: Paperback

Titles in this set:

• The Mayor of Casterbridge
• Tess of the d'Urbervilles
• The Return of the Native
• Far from the Madding Crowd
• Jude the Obscure

Description:

The Mayor of Casterbridge

Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge recounts the life of Michael Henchard and the tragic events leading to his death. After selling his wife, Susan, and their daughter, Elizabeth-Jane, to a sailor in a drunken stupor, Michael vows to abstain from alcohol for twenty-one years. He rises from a hay-trusser to the mayor of Casterbridge. Years later, Susan returns, unaware of his elevated status. Hardy's novel keeps us on edge as chance and coincidence reveal hidden truths, build and break friendships, and unite and separate lovers. What happens to Susan and Elizabeth after they live with the sailor? Will Mr. Henchard be reunited with his family?

Tess of the d'Urbervilles

When poor haggler John Durbeyfield discovers a connection to an old lineage, his naive daughter Tess is sent to claim kinship. Upon arrival, she is seduced by Alec d'Urberville, leading to a secret birth and loss. Later, Tess meets and marries the morally upright Angel Clare, who abandons her upon learning of her past. What occurs when Angel returns? A tragedy unfolds, culminating in the death of a main character. The story explores themes of paganism, class disparity, and rural vs urban life, remaining relevant today.

The Return of the Native

This novel mirrors its characters—farmers, innkeepers, and lovers—with the changing heath. Clym Yeobright returns from Paris, entangling himself with his cousin Thomasin, her fiancé Damon Wildeve, and the obstinate Eustacia Vye. Hardy explores the treacherous role of chance in determining life's course through themes of love, passion, and melancholy.

Far from the Madding Crowd

Set in the idyllic yet harsh rural England of the 19th century, Far from the Madding Crowd follows the beautiful Bathsheba Everdene and her unexpected encounters with love and betrayal. Who is Bathsheba destined to love: the loyal Gabriel Oak, the obsessed William Boldwood, or the cunning Sergeant Troy?

Jude the Obscure

The release of Jude the Obscure marked the end of Hardy's career due to its bold exploration of class and sexual connections. Jude Fawley, forced to marry the earthy Arabella, sees his dreams of attending Christminster University dashed. Relocating to Christminster, he meets Sue Bridehead, a free-spirited woman. They choose to live together rather than marry for tradition, facing societal rejection and poverty. Will their love endure against all odds?