Bøker av Thomas Hardy

With an essay by Ronald Blythe.'I cannot allow any man to - to criticise my private conduct!' she exclaimed. 'Nor will I for a minute.'Hardy's powerful novel of swift sexual passion and slow-burning loyalty centres on Bathsheba Everdene, a proud working woman whose life is complicated by three different men - respectable farmer Boldwood, seductive Sergeant Troy and devoted Gabriel - making her the object of scandal and betrayal. Vividly portraying the superstitions and traditions of a small rural community, Far from the Madding Crowd shows the precarious position of a woman in a man's world.The Penguin English Library - 100 editions of the best fiction in English, from the eighteenth century and the very first novels to the beginning of the First World War.

Penguin Classics presents Thomas Hardys moving epic Tess of the DUrbervilles, available as an abridged downloadable audiobook read by Eleanor Bron. When Tess Durbeyfield is driven by family poverty to claim kinship with the wealthy DUrbervilles and seek a portion of their family fortune, meeting her cousin Alec proves to be her downfall. A very different man, Angel Clare, seems to offer her love and salvation, but Tess must choose whether to reveal her past or remain silent in the hope of a peaceful future. With its sensitive depiction of the wronged Tess and powerful criticism of social convention, Tess of the DUrbervilles is one of the most moving and poetic of Hardys novels.

Each volume in the Collector's Library series has a specially commissioned Afterword, brief biography of the author and a further reading list. The Afterword is by leading UK playwright, novelist and eminent Sherlockian, David Stuart Davies.

Thomas Hardy's beautiful story of rural tragedy set in the fictional county of Wessex, featuring an afterword by Philip Mallett, editor of the Thomas Hardy Journal.

"Moment of Vision and Miscellaneous Verses" by Thomas Hardy is an affirmative and introspective anthology likely featuring a diverse selection of poems reflecting the poet's keen observations on life, love, and the passage of time. In this collection, readers can expect to encounter a variety of verses that capture fleeting moments of insight and reflection. The title, "Moments of Vision and Miscellaneous Verses," suggests a compilation of poems that offer glimpses into the poet's innermost thoughts and emotions, as well as reflections on the world around him. Hardy's language is likely to be both evocative and contemplative, as he explores themes such as memory, mortality, and the complexities of human relationships. Through his keen observations and poignant imagery, Hardy invites readers to ponder the fleeting nature of existence and the enduring power of the human spirit.

"Poems of the Past and the Present" by Thomas Hardy is an affirmative and introspective collection that unveils the poetic genius of the renowned English novelist and poet. Hardy, known for his novels such as "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and "Far from the Madding Crowd," also made a significant impact with his poetic works. In this collection, readers can expect a series of poems that likely delve into the complexities of time, memory, and the enduring themes of human existence. Hardy's verses may explore the interplay between the past and the present, reflecting on the passage of time and its impact on individuals and societies. The title, "Poems of the Past and the Present," suggests a comprehensive anthology that brings together the diverse expressions of Hardy's poetic craftsmanship. This collection likely includes works that showcase his keen observations, vivid imagery, and a profound understanding of the human condition.

"Satires of Circumstance: Lyrics & Reveries with Miscellaneous Pieces" by Thomas Hardy is a poetic collection that unveils the Victorian novelist's lyrical prowess and his contemplative exploration of the human condition. Published in the early 20th century, this anthology showcases Hardy's versatility as a writer, transitioning from prose fiction to the realms of verse with poetic finesse. At the heart of this collection are the "Satires of Circumstance," a series of poems that delve into the complexities of life, love, and the inexorable influence of external forces. Hardy's lyricism is likely marked by a nuanced understanding of the inherent ironies and contradictions that shape human existence. The poems may embody a satirical lens, offering readers a reflective commentary on the quirks of fate and the interplay of societal norms. Intertwined with the satirical elements are Hardy's "Lyrics & Reveries," which likely delve into the realm of personal reflections and introspections. These pieces may showcase the poet's keen observations of nature, his contemplation of love's joys and sorrows, and his musings on the transient nature of time.

In Jude the Obscure, Thomas Hardy weaves a complex narrative around Jude Fawley's aspirations and struggles. From his humble beginnings with dreams of academia to a tumultuous personal life marked by a hasty marriage, Hardy plunges Jude into a series of romantic entanglements and societal condemnations that challenge his ideals and desires. The novel navigates through themes of love, social ostracism, and the rigid constraints of Victorian society, leaving readers pondering the costs of convention and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.Jude the Obscure delves into the harsh realities of Victorian England, critiquing institutions like marriage, religion, and education through the life of Jude Fawley. Hardy's narrative reflects his personal struggles with class and education, paralleling Jude's unattainable academic dreams. The novel's stark portrayal of societal constraints and personal tragedies presents a compelling argument against the oppressive norms of the time, making it a significant piece in the canon of English literature. This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.

"Wessex Poems and Other Verses" is a collection of poetry by the English novelist and poet Thomas Hardy. Published in 1898, the collection features a selection of Hardy's poems that reflect his deep connection to the landscape, people, and traditions of the fictional region of Wessex, which encompasses parts of southwestern England.Key features of "Wessex Poems and Other Verses" include:1. **Regionalism:** The poems in this collection often celebrate the local landscapes, traditions, and dialects of Wessex, a region that became central to many of Hardy's novels and poems.2. **Nature and the Past:** Hardy's poetry frequently explores the relationship between humans and nature, often with a sense of nostalgia for a vanishing rural way of life.3. **Melancholy and Fatalism:** Many of Hardy's poems carry a sense of melancholy and fatalism, reflecting his deep contemplation of the human condition and the inevitability of change.4. **Reflections on Love and Loss:** Hardy, known for his novels exploring tragic love stories, also delves into themes of love and loss in his poetry, presenting a nuanced and sometimes somber perspective on relationships.5. **Symbolism and Imagery:** Hardy employs rich symbolism and vivid imagery in his poetry, creating evocative and memorable scenes that capture the essence of Wessex.Notable poems within "Wessex Poems and Other Verses" include "The Going," "The Darkling Thrush," and "The Voice." The collection is recognized for its contribution to regionalist literature and its influence on the landscape-oriented poetry of the early 20th century.

"Time's Laughingstocks" is a poem by Thomas Hardy that explores the themes of time, love, and the inexorable march of life. Hardy, known for his poignant and reflective poetry, uses this piece to contemplate the transient nature of human existence.The title "Time's Laughingstocks" suggests a sense of mockery or derision from time towards human endeavors. The poem likely delves into the idea that time is indifferent to human joys and sorrows, and it continues to progress regardless of our experiences.Hardy often grapples with the inevitability of change and the impact of time on relationships and emotions. In "Time's Laughingstocks," readers can expect the poet's characteristic use of language and imagery to evoke a contemplative mood, inviting reflection on the complexities of the human experience in the face of an indifferent and ever-moving time.

"Time's Laughingstocks and Other Verses" by Thomas Hardy is a collection of poems that showcases the renowned English author's poetic prowess. In this anthology, Hardy explores a diverse range of themes, including love, nature, time, and the human condition. The title poem, "Time's Laughingstocks," is emblematic of Hardy's keen sense of irony and his contemplative perspective on the passage of time.Throughout the collection, readers can expect Hardy's characteristic use of vivid imagery, poignant reflections, and a deep engagement with the complexities of life. The verses may reveal Hardy's philosophical musings on fate, mortality, and the inevitability of change."Time's Laughingstocks and Other Verses" adds another dimension to Thomas Hardy's literary legacy, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotions and observations through the medium of poetry. It remains a valuable collection for those appreciative of Hardy's prose and poetry alike.

A heartbreaking novel about a young woman named Tess who is the victim of societal prejudice and oppression. The book is a powerful indictment of the double standards and moral hypocrisy that characterized Victorian England and continues to resonate with readers today.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

The Mayor of Casterbridge: The Life and Death of a Man of Character is an 1886 novel by the English author Thomas Hardy. One of Hardy's Wessex novels, it is set in a fictional rural England with Casterbridge standing in for Dorchester in Dorset where the author spent his youth. It was first published as a weekly serialisation from January 1886.The novel is considered to be one of Hardy's masterpieces, although it has been criticised for incorporating too many incidents, a consequence of the author trying to include something in every weekly published instalment. (wikipedia.org)

The Hand of Ethelberta: A Comedy in Chapters is a novel by Thomas Hardy, published in 1876. It was written, in serial form, for The Cornhill Magazine, which was edited by Leslie Stephen, a friend and mentor of Hardy's. Unlike the majority of Hardy's fiction, the novel is a comedy, with both humour and a happy ending for the major characters and no suicides or tragic deaths. The late nineteenth century novelist George Gissing, who knew Hardy, considered it "surely old Hardy's poorest book". It was adapted for BBC Radio 4 by Katherine Jakeways. The one-hour play was released just before International Women's Day 2021, as part of a series on Hardy's women. (wikipedia.org)

Two on a Tower: A Romance (1882) is a novel by English author Thomas Hardy, classified by him as a romance and fantasy it is one of his minor works. The book is one of Hardy's Wessex novels, set in late Victorian Dorset. Because the book defied the social norms of the day, upon release the book was called shocking, repulsive, and one critic called it Hardy's "worst yet." Hardy's biographer, Claire Tomalin, says Hardy was "writing for serialization, which drove him to pack in far too much plot," and he wrote too fast "without time to think or reconsider."Hardy wrote in a letter to Edmund Gosse on 10 Dec 1882, "I get most extraordinary criticisms of T. on a T. Eminent critics write & tell me in private that it is the most original thing I have done...while other eminent critics (I wonder if they are the same) print the most cutting rebukes you can conceive-show me (to my amazement) that I am quite an immoral person..." (wikipedia.org)

The Trumpet-Major is a novel by Thomas Hardy published in 1880, and his only historical novel, and Hardy included it with his "romances and fantasies". It concerns the heroine, Anne Garland, being pursued by three suitors: John Loveday, the eponymous trumpet major in a British regiment, honest and loyal; his brother Bob, a flighty sailor; and Festus Derriman, the cowardly nephew of the local squire. Unusually for a Hardy novel, the ending is not entirely tragic; however, there remains an ominous element in the probable fate of one of the main characters.The novel is set in Weymouth during the Napoleonic wars; the town was then anxious about the possibility of invasion by Napoleon. Of the two brothers, John fights with Wellington in the Peninsular War, and Bob serves with Nelson at Trafalgar. The Napoleonic Wars was a setting that Hardy would use again in his play, The Dynasts, and it borrows from the same source material.Edward Neill has called the novel an attempt to repeat the success of his earlier work Far from the Madding Crowd (1874), after the limited success of his intervening works. The novel originally appeared in 1880 in the Evangelical serial Good Words (January-December) with 33 illustrations by John Collier. The three-volume first edition was published in October 1880. (wikipedia.org)

The Return of the Native is Thomas Hardy's sixth published novel. It first appeared in the magazine Belgravia, a publication known for its sensationalism, and was presented in twelve monthly installments from January to December 1878. Because of the novel's controversial themes, Hardy had some difficulty finding a publisher; reviews, however, though somewhat mixed, were generally positive. In the twentieth century, The Return of the Native became one of Hardy's most popular and highly regarded novels. With its deeply flawed heroine and its (for the time) open acknowledgement of illicit sexual relationships, The Return of the Native raised some eyebrows when it first appeared as a serial in Victorian Britain. Although he intended to structure the novel into five books, thus mirroring the classical tragic format, Hardy submitted to the tastes of the serial-reading public sufficiently to tack on a happy ending for Diggory Venn and Thomasin in a sixth book, Aftercourses. In Hardy's original conception, Venn retains his weird reddleman's character, while Thomasin lives out her days as a widow.Hardy's choice of themes-sexual politics, thwarted desire, and the conflicting demands of nature and society-makes this a truly modern novel. Underlying these modern themes, however, is a classical sense of tragedy: Hardy scrupulously observes the three unities of time, place, and action and suggests that the struggles of those trying to escape their destinies will only hasten their destruction. To emphasise this main part he uses as setting an ancient heath steeped in pre-Christian history and supplies a Chorus consisting of Grandfer Cantle, Timothy Fairway, and the rest of the heathfolk. Eustacia, who manipulates fate in hopes of leaving Egdon Heath for a larger existence in Paris, instead becomes an eternal resident when she drowns in Shadwater Weir; Wildeve shares not only Eustacia's dream of escape, but also her fate; and Clym, the would-be educational reformer, survives the Weir but lives on as a lonely, remorseful man.Some critics-notably D. H. Lawrence-see the novel as a study of the way communities control their misfits. In Egdon Heath, most people (particularly the women) look askance at the proud, unconventional Eustacia. Mrs. Yeobright considers her too odd and unreliable to be a suitable bride for her son, and Susan Nunsuch, who frankly believes her to be a witch, tries to protect her children from Eustacia's supposedly baleful influence by stabbing her with a stocking pin and later burning her in effigy. Clym at first laughs at such superstitions, but later embraces the majority opinion when he rejects his wife as a murderer and adulteress. In this view, Eustacia dies because she has internalised the community's values to the extent that, unable to escape Egdon without confirming her status as a fallen woman, she chooses suicide. She thereby ends her sorrows while at the same time-by drowning in the weir like any woman instead of floating, witchlike-she proves her essential innocence to the community. (wikipedia.org)

Far from the Madding Crowd (1874) is Thomas Hardy's fourth novel and his first major literary success. It originally appeared anonymously as a monthly serial in Cornhill Magazine, where it gained a wide readership.The novel is set in Thomas Hardy's Wessex in rural southwest England, as had been his earlier Under the Greenwood Tree. It deals in themes of love, honour and betrayal, against a backdrop of the seemingly idyllic, but often harsh, realities of a farming community in Victorian England. It describes the life and relationships of Bathsheba Everdene with her lonely neighbour William Boldwood, the faithful shepherd Gabriel Oak, and the thriftless soldier Sergeant Troy.On publication, critical notices were plentiful and mostly positive. Hardy revised the text extensively for the 1895 edition and made further changes for the 1901 edition.The novel has an enduring legacy. In 2003, the novel was listed at number 48 on the BBC's survey The Big Read, while in 2007, it was ranked 10th on The Guardian's list of greatest love stories of all time. The novel has also been dramatised several times, notably in the Oscar-nominated 1967 film directed by John Schlesinger. (wikipedia.org)

A Pair of Blue Eyes is a novel by Thomas Hardy, published in 1873, first serialised between September 1872 and July 1873. It was Hardy's third published novel, and the first not published anonymously upon its first publication. Hardy included it with his "romances and fantasies". A Pair of Blue Eyes normally is categorised as one of Hardy's minor works, "a book with a few good points but a failure as a whole". Like Desperate Remedies, it contains melodramatic scenes that appear disconnected from the characters and plot.A focus of critical interest of the novel is the scene in which Henry Knight reviews the entire history of the world as he hangs over the edge of a cliff (reputedly the origin of the term "cliffhanger"), and eventually is rescued by a rope of Elfride's underwear. Carl J. Weber sources the scene to a picnic Hardy and his wife had, in which he was sent to search for a lost earring, claiming this passage is the "first indication in the novels of Hardy's ability to sustain interest in a tense situation by sheer power of vivid description." On the other hand, Millgate claims the scene forms part of the "irrelevant" description suited to the "rag-bag" of a novel. For Jean Brooks, the scene is "macabre" and an illustration of "cosmic indifference", also highlighting the comic in the rescue.However, Gittings and Halperin claim it is more likely the idea for this scene comes from an essay by Leslie Stephen titled "Five minutes in the Alps". The "cliff without a name", as it is referred to, is probably based on Beeny Cliff. (wikipedia.org)

"The Mayor of Casterbridge," penned by the literary master Thomas Hardy, stands as a compelling and tragic exploration of one man's tumultuous journey through the twists of fate. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the fictional Wessex, the novel unfolds with an air of inevitability, weaving a tale that delves deep into the complexities of human character, societal expectations, and the relentless march of time.At its heart, the narrative revolves around Michael Henchard, a man whose life takes an irrevocable turn on a fateful night in a fit of drunken impulsivity. In a moment of perceived levity, Henchard auctions off his wife, Susan, and their young daughter, Elizabeth-Jane, to the highest bidder at a local fair. This shocking and morally reprehensible act sets the stage for the inexorable tragedies that befall him and those entwined in the tapestry of his existence.The character of Henchard is a study in contradictions-a man driven by pride, haunted by remorse, and forever grappling with the consequences of his impulsive actions. Rising from humble beginnings, Henchard ascends to the position of Mayor of the town of Casterbridge, a title that becomes both a testament to his ambition and a harbinger of his ultimate downfall. Hardy deftly crafts Henchard as a complex and flawed protagonist, inviting readers to both empathize with his struggles and recoil from the moral abyss into which he descends.The novel's exploration of love and relationships is equally poignant. Susan, the wife auctioned off by Henchard, embodies resilience in the face of adversity, while Elizabeth-Jane, the daughter unwittingly traded in the marketplace of familial bonds, grapples with her own identity and sense of belonging. As the plot unfolds, romantic entanglements and the complexities of human connection are explored with a depth that adds layers of emotional richness to the narrative.Casterbridge itself emerges as a vivid and dynamic backdrop-a town pulsating with life, aspirations, and the whispers of its own history. Hardy's meticulous attention to detail paints a canvas that captures the essence of rural England, from the bustling marketplace to the serene countryside. The ebb and flow of life in Casterbridge become inseparable from the destinies of its inhabitants, serving as both witness and accomplice to the unfolding drama.Throughout the novel, Hardy weaves a tapestry of themes that transcend time and place. The inexorable influence of fate, the inescapable consequences of one's actions, and the intricate dance between societal expectations and individual desires are expertly explored. The Mayor of Casterbridge, while rooted in its Victorian milieu, resonates with universal truths that continue to captivate readers across generations.As the narrative hurtles toward its tragic climax, "The Mayor of Casterbridge" remains a testament to Thomas Hardy's narrative prowess. The novel's power lies not only in its vivid characters and evocative setting but also in its unflinching examination of the human condition. Hardy, with his keen understanding of the human psyche, invites readers to confront the complexities of morality, redemption, and the relentless march of time-a literary journey that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

"Life is an oasis which is submerged in the swirling waves of sorrows."Published in 1886, The Mayor of Casterbridge is one of Thomas Hardy's famous Wessex novels. The novel depicts the life of a hay trusser, Michael Henchard, who auctions his wife and baby girl to a sailor in a drunken state.Nineteen years later, Henchard establishes himself as the mayor of Casterbridge but the deplorable truth of his erstwhile life lies buried in his heart. His past revisits him when his wife and daughter return to Casterbridge.A tragic account of a deceptive man, this novel is considered to be a masterpiece of Hardy's deeply imagined dramatic works.

""Times Laughingstocks, and Other Verses"" is a collection of poetry written by Thomas Hardy, the renowned English novelist and poet, and was first published in 1909. This anthology encapsulates Hardy's poignant reflections on the transient nature of life, the human experience, and the societal changes of his time. Through his evocative and lyrical verses, Hardy delves into themes such as love, loss, the passage of time, and the complexities of human relationships, offering readers a profound and intimate glimpse into the emotional landscape of the human condition. ""Times Laughingstocks, and Other Verses"" showcases Hardy's poetic craftsmanship, characterized by its elegant language, introspective tone, and profound contemplation of the vicissitudes of existence, making it a timeless and enduring contribution to the world of English literature and poetry.

""Under the Greenwood Tree; Or, The Mellstock Quire"" is a pastoral novel written by Thomas Hardy, first published in 1872. Set in the idyllic English countryside, the story revolves around the rustic lives of the members of the Mellstock parish choir and their interactions with the changing social and cultural landscape of the Victorian era. Hardy's rich and descriptive prose captures the essence of rural life, depicting the customs, traditions, and romantic entanglements of the characters. The novel exudes a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, exploring themes of love, courtship, and the impact of modernity on traditional village life. Through its portrayal of the gentle rhythms of rural existence and the emotional complexities of its characters, ""Under the Greenwood Tree"" remains a timeless depiction of pastoral charm and the human experience within a close-knit community.