Compare how Shakespeare and Hardy present the role of their tragic

Compare how Shakespeare and Hardy present the role of their tragic

heroines within society in Romeo and Juliet and Tess of the

D’Urbervilles?

Shakespeare’s Juliet, of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and Hardy’s ‘Tess of the

D’Urbervilles’ share many characteristics which make them tragic

heroines. Their individual battles with their societies, and their

distorted moral codes and prejudices, toughens their spirits and

reinforces their determination to succeed and reach their personal

goals. In their contemporary societies, where women were generally

oppressed and marginalised within literature, these strong female

characters were seen as controversial and divisive. Although Juliet

and Tess are characters from disparate backgrounds and societies,

there are remarkable similarities between the two both in their

characters and the way they are seen within society.

The tragic heroine is often the most powerful within literature. One

of the reasons for the interest in women is their interesting and

complicated role within society. Many societies and cultures regard

women in high esteem, however, at the same time, they are often

treated unfairly and indifferently by their societies. Juliet Capulet

from Shakespeare’s play ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and Tess Derbyfield from

Thomas Hardy’s novel ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ are prime examples of

tragic heroines. They symbolise her constant spirit and determination

and are typical products of their authors and also the times and

societies in which they were created.

The presentation of the heroine begins in biblical times with

notorious characters such as Eve and the Virgin Mary. These early

female characters started the development of our literary heroines.

Throughout Classical, M...

... middle of paper ...

...pose intended… (Angel Clare and the Montagues and

Capulets)

When Tess was published it received mixed criticism- challenged many

accepted Victorian assumptions about society, sexual morality, and

religion. Sold well as it was subject of scandal. Shakespeare also

challenged the moral assumptions of his society but not to as great a

degree. Commissioned by/ shown to royalty? - risky? Why did

Shakespeare write ‘Romeo and Juliet’?

Social novels, social commentary/ comment.

Writers trying to communicate their social views through drama and the

publication of a serial in a magazine.

Tess is a metaphor for all of nature and through her, Hardy protests

the take over of technology and the disappearance of country

traditions. Hardy’s strong preference for the natural values of the

country over urban life, and for the peasant class over the middle

classes.