Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman

Fate vs. Free Will

Hardy consistently portrays Tess as a pawn of an indifferent, often cruel, universe. Her misfortunes are often the result of chance encounters, societal structures, or the actions of others, rather than her own deliberate choices. The 'President of the Immortals' quote underscores this fatalistic worldview, suggesting human lives are merely sport for higher powers.

Victorian Morality and Hypocrisy

The novel is a direct challenge to the rigid and often hypocritical moral codes of Victorian society, particularly concerning female sexuality. Tess, despite her inherent goodness and lack of malicious intent, is condemned as 'fallen' due to her sexual experiences outside marriage, while the men who exploit her (Alec) or judge her (Angel) are largely excused or redeemed.