Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Thomas Hardy, a prominent Victorian novelist, is renowned for his ‘tragic realism’ – a narrative style that blends realistic depictions of rural life with a sense of inescapable fate. A key element of this style is his frequent use of coincidence, not as a mere plot device, but as a structural principle that underscores the deterministic forces at play in his characters’ lives. In *Tess of the d'Urbervilles* (1891), coincidence isn’t simply a matter of chance occurrences; it’s woven into the very fabric of the narrative, shaping Tess’s experiences and ultimately contributing to her tragic downfall. This essay will elaborate on how Hardy makes coincidence an integral part of the novel’s structure, illustrating this claim with specific examples from the text.
Hardy’s Use of Coincidence: A Structural Principle
Hardy doesn’t employ coincidence randomly. Instead, it functions as a means of highlighting the limitations of human agency and the overwhelming power of external forces – societal norms, historical circumstances, and even the natural world. Coincidences in his novels often serve to trap characters in situations they cannot control, reinforcing the sense of a predetermined destiny. They aren’t simply plot twists; they are symbolic representations of the larger, often cruel, forces governing human existence.
Illustrations of Coincidence in *Tess of the d'Urbervilles*
1. The Durbeyfield Family’s Discovery of Their Noble Ancestry
The novel begins with the seemingly fortuitous discovery of the Durbeyfields’ noble lineage by the parson, Mr. Stayte. This revelation, while appearing as a stroke of luck, sets in motion a chain of events that leads to Tess’s vulnerability. The family’s attempt to capitalize on this supposed heritage results in Tess being sent to claim kinship with the d'Urberville family, ultimately leading to her seduction by Alec. This initial coincidence isn’t a positive turning point but a catalyst for tragedy.
2. Tess’s Encounter with Alec d'Urberville at Talbothays Dairy
After escaping Alec, Tess finds temporary refuge at Talbothays Dairy. However, the seemingly idyllic setting is shattered by the unexpected arrival of Alec, who has undergone a religious conversion. This coincidence is particularly devastating as it reintroduces the source of Tess’s initial trauma and sets the stage for her eventual downfall. Hardy deliberately orchestrates this encounter, demonstrating how Tess cannot escape her past.
3. Angel Clare’s Sister, Liza-Lu, and Tess’s Confession
The coincidence of Angel’s sister, Liza-Lu, being in the same situation as Tess – having a child out of wedlock – is crucial. Liza-Lu’s story prompts Tess to confess her past to Angel, believing he will understand. However, Angel’s reaction is one of rejection and abandonment, fueled by his rigid Victorian morality. This coincidence, intended to foster empathy, ironically leads to further suffering for Tess.
4. The Arrest at Stonehenge
Perhaps the most striking example of coincidence is Tess’s arrest at Stonehenge. Angel, having finally understood Tess’s plight and wanting to reconcile, arrives at Stonehenge only to witness her arrest for the murder of Alec. This timing is not accidental; Hardy uses it to emphasize the futility of Tess’s attempts to escape her fate. The ancient monument, a symbol of enduring time and immutable forces, becomes the backdrop for Tess’s final, tragic capture.
5. The Letter and Angel’s Return from Brazil
The delayed arrival of Angel’s letter explaining his change of heart, coupled with his simultaneous return from Brazil, is another significant coincidence. Had the letter arrived sooner, Tess might have avoided her desperate act. The timing underscores the role of chance and miscommunication in exacerbating Tess’s tragedy. It highlights how small delays can have catastrophic consequences.
Thematic Significance of Coincidence
Through these instances of coincidence, Hardy critiques the Victorian social structures and the deterministic forces that constrain individuals. The coincidences aren’t merely narrative devices; they are symbolic representations of the societal pressures, moral hypocrisy, and the limitations imposed upon women in Victorian England. They demonstrate that Tess is a victim not only of individual actions but also of a system that offers her little agency or escape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hardy masterfully integrates coincidence into the structure of *Tess of the d'Urbervilles*, elevating it beyond a simple plot device to a fundamental element of the novel’s tragic vision. These coincidences aren’t random occurrences but rather deliberate narrative choices that underscore the deterministic forces shaping Tess’s life and the limitations of human agency. By repeatedly placing Tess in situations dictated by chance and circumstance, Hardy critiques Victorian society and highlights the devastating consequences of its rigid moral codes. The pervasive presence of coincidence ultimately reinforces the novel’s bleak portrayal of a world where individuals are often powerless against the currents of fate.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.