Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy

These excerpts from Thomas Hardy's "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" trace the evolving fortunes and tragic circumstances of the protagonist, Tess Durbeyfield. Initially learning of a noble ancestry, Tess's life is marked by hardship, societal pressures, and fateful encounters. The narrative follows her experiences as a milkmaid, her complex relationship with Alec d'Urberville, and her passionate but ill-fated love for Angel Clare. The provided sections explore themes of social class, reputation, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions on Tess's life and relationships, ultimately foreshadowing a path of suffering and injustice.