In Thomas Hardy’s novel Jude the Obscure various aspects of dealing with the development of characters, contriving new ways of narration in 19th century English literature and also the influence of autobiographical references reveal themselves to not only squeamish readers.
The following examination of Hardy’s last novel is based on the impacts of biological determinism on the development and the course of action of Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley. Additionally the way Hardy’s novel was conceived and how the roles of Sue and Jude actively shaped this gloomy novel will be examined. Both tragic characters will be paid equal attention to, as far as an acute analysis of their traits of character and a connection with theories of determinism is concerned. Furthermore there will be a short discourse on Hardy’s process of contrivance of figures which will be directly and explicitly related to the different fall of both characters. Especially the fateful evolution of Jude Fawley, the tragic main character, will be debated.
The difficulties of analyzing the existence of biological determinism in Jude the Obscure are of various stamping. While a determinist can easily give a detailed description of his theoretical knowledge or approach, one must read between the lines and rely on a huge accumulation of tiny hints discovered amid all passages of the novel to actually distinguish the effects of biological determinism on Jude Fawley and Sue Bridehead.
An isolated view of both characters is helpful at first but finally is uncovered as insufficient. Jude’s and Sue’s course of action and mutual interaction have to be considered to make it clear to the reader of the examination at hand that the determined development of both characters is realized by the way one influences the other.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Character and development of Sue Bridehead
- Jude Fawley: a biologically determined figure
- The gloomy quality of Jude the Obscure
- Bibliography
- Primary Literature
- Secondary Literature
- Quotations
Objectives and Key Themes
This examination of Thomas Hardy's Jude the Obscure analyzes the impact of biological determinism on the development and actions of Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley. It explores how Hardy's narrative techniques and the characters' interactions shaped the novel's gloomy atmosphere. The analysis will connect character traits with theories of determinism, focusing on the tragic evolution of Jude Fawley.
- Biological determinism in shaping character development
- The influence of social conventions on character choices
- The interrelationship and mutual influence between Sue and Jude
- Hardy's narrative techniques and their contribution to the novel's tone
- The tragic fates of Jude and Sue
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This chapter introduces the central focus of the analysis: the impact of biological determinism on the development and actions of Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley in Thomas Hardy's Jude the Obscure. It highlights the novel's exploration of 19th-century narrative techniques and autobiographical influences. The chapter establishes the equal importance of analyzing both characters and their intertwined destinies, emphasizing the need to examine their interactions and mutual influence to understand their predetermined paths. The inherent challenges of identifying biological determinism within the novel are also addressed, suggesting the need for close textual analysis to uncover subtle hints and clues.
Character and development of Sue Bridehead: This section delves into the complex character of Sue Bridehead and how her behavior evolves throughout the narrative. It begins by defining biological determinism, explaining that it posits that human characteristics, including behavior and fate, are primarily determined by genes. The analysis then applies this theory to Sue's development, acknowledging that while her actions are partly shaped by inherent traits and past experiences, social circumstances and interactions with Jude significantly influence her trajectory. The chapter explores their cousinly relationship, complicated by familial pressure against their union due to past marital failures in their family history. The idea of a "terrible intensification of unfitness" resulting from their marriage highlights the weight of biological determinism on their choices.
Keywords
Biological determinism, Thomas Hardy, Jude the Obscure, Sue Bridehead, Jude Fawley, character development, 19th-century literature, tragic characters, narrative techniques, social conventions, family history.
Jude the Obscure: A Comprehensive Language Preview - FAQ
What is the purpose of this language preview?
This preview provides a comprehensive overview of an academic analysis of Thomas Hardy's Jude the Obscure. It includes the table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. The analysis focuses on the impact of biological determinism on the main characters, Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley.
What are the main themes explored in the analysis of Jude the Obscure?
The analysis explores the impact of biological determinism on the development and actions of Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley. It examines how Hardy's narrative techniques and the characters' interactions contribute to the novel's gloomy atmosphere. Key themes include biological determinism, social conventions, the interrelationship between Sue and Jude, Hardy's narrative techniques, and the tragic fates of the main characters.
What aspects of Sue Bridehead's character are analyzed?
The analysis delves into the complexity of Sue Bridehead's character and how her behavior evolves throughout the novel. It applies the theory of biological determinism to understand her actions, acknowledging the interplay between inherent traits, past experiences, social circumstances, and her interactions with Jude.
How does the analysis address Jude Fawley's character?
The analysis examines Jude Fawley as a biologically determined figure, exploring how his inherent traits and experiences shape his actions and ultimate fate. It connects his character traits with theories of determinism, focusing on his tragic evolution.
What is the role of biological determinism in the analysis?
Biological determinism is central to the analysis. It explores the idea that human characteristics, including behavior and fate, are primarily determined by genes. The analysis investigates how this theory applies to the development and actions of both Sue Bridehead and Jude Fawley.
What narrative techniques of Hardy are discussed?
The analysis examines how Hardy's narrative techniques contribute to the overall tone and atmosphere of the novel. It explores the connection between these techniques and the characters' predetermined paths.
What is included in the chapter summaries?
The preview includes summaries of the introduction and the chapter focusing on Sue Bridehead's character development. The introduction outlines the central focus of the analysis and the challenges in identifying biological determinism within the text. The Sue Bridehead chapter delves into her character and applies the concept of biological determinism to her life.
What keywords are associated with this analysis?
Keywords include: Biological determinism, Thomas Hardy, Jude the Obscure, Sue Bridehead, Jude Fawley, character development, 19th-century literature, tragic characters, narrative techniques, social conventions, and family history.
What is the overall tone of the novel as presented in the preview?
The preview highlights the gloomy and tragic atmosphere of Jude the Obscure, emphasizing the predetermined paths and tragic fates of the main characters.
What is the intended audience for this analysis?
The analysis is intended for academic use, focusing on a structured and professional examination of themes within Jude the Obscure.
- Quote paper
- Jan Teichelmann (Author), 2007, Biological determinism and the development of tragic characters in 'Jude the Obscure', Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/79106
