Thomas Hardy and the Comic Muse
Thomas Hardy and the Comic Muse

Author: J. K. Lloyd Jones

Publisher: Cambridge Scholars Publishing

Published: 2009-03-26

Total Pages: 270

ISBN-13: 1443806269

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There has long been a tendency to regard Thomas Hardy as a great tragic writer and to ignore or underestimate the value of his comic works. This derives no doubt partly from the fact that comedy as an art form has been consistently undervalued ever since Aristotle dealt with it so slightly and so slightingly. It also stems from the evident inability of some readers and critics to allow an artist a wide scope and multiple voices. Thomas Hardy and the Comic Muse discusses the nature of comedy and the various theories that purport to explain or define it, and examines Hardy’s works — novels, short stories, and poetry — in terms of the categories of farce, humour, satire, and wit. It looks at where and why Hardy made use of these forms of comedy, what his historical sources were, and why this side of his work has been so frequently neglected. It also looks at what insights might be offered by Hardy — both directly and indirectly — to answer the difficult but always tantalizing question: what is comedy? The two subjects, Hardy and Comedy, are counterpointed throughout so that they prove to be mutually illuminating.

The Hand of Ethelberta
The Hand of Ethelberta

Author: Thomas Hardy

Publisher: Independently Published

Published: 2019-05-09

Total Pages: 232

ISBN-13: 9781097573684

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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.At the beginning of the book, it is told that Ethelberta was raised in humble circumstances but, through her work as a governess, married well at the age of eighteen. Her husband died two weeks after the wedding and, now twenty-one, Ethelberta lives with her mother-in-law, Lady Petherwin. In the three years that have elapsed since the deaths of both her husband and father-in-law, Ethelberta has been treated to foreign travel and further privilege by her benefactress, but restricted from seeing her poor family.

The Hand of Ethelberta Illustrated
The Hand of Ethelberta Illustrated

Author: Thomas Hardy

Publisher:

Published: 2021-04-13

Total Pages: 524

ISBN-13:

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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'

The Hand Of Ethelberta
The Hand Of Ethelberta

Author: Thomas Hardy

Publisher:

Published: 2024-05-22

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781835528860

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Enter the intriguing world of Victorian society with Thomas Hardy's "The Hand of Ethelberta." This captivating novel combines romance, satire, and social commentary, presenting a rich tapestry of characters and themes that explore the complexities of identity, ambition, and class. "The Hand of Ethelberta" follows the life of Ethelberta Petherwin, a clever and ambitious young woman of humble origins who rises to prominence as a celebrated poet and storyteller. Determined to secure a comfortable future for her family, Ethelberta navigates the challenges of Victorian society with wit and resourcefulness. Her journey is marked by a series of romantic entanglements and social maneuverings, as she strives to maintain her precarious position while concealing her true background. Key Themes: Social Mobility and Identity: Ethelberta's ascent from governess to celebrated poet highlights the fluidity and rigidity of social class in Victorian England. The novel examines the lengths to which individuals must go to transcend their origins and the personal costs involved. Ambition and Self-Determination: Ethelberta is a portrait of determination and ambition. Her drive to improve her circumstances and protect her family underscores themes of female agency and resilience. Romantic Entanglements: The novel intricately explores the dynamics of love and marriage, focusing on Ethelberta's relationships with her various suitors and the societal pressures that influence romantic choices. Satire and Social Commentary: Hardy's sharp wit and keen observations provide a satirical look at the pretensions and hypocrisies of the upper classes, offering a critique of the social norms and values of the time. "The Hand of Ethelberta" is a unique entry in Hardy's oeuvre, blending elements of comedy, drama, and romance to create a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Ethelberta's character is a refreshing departure from Hardy's typically tragic heroines, showcasing his versatility as a writer.