Thomas Hardy: The Novels

A detailed and practical guide to the analysis of Thomas Hardy's technique and style through close consideration of extracts from four major novels: Far from the Madding Crowd, The Mayor of Casterbridge, Tess of the d'Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure. These works are also placed in the context of Hardy's life and career, and of Victorian traditions of fiction. A final chapter identifies and illustrates important aspects of their critical history.