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Thomas Hardy
1840–1928 · English
About the author
Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) was an English novelist and poet, initially trained as an architect before turning to literature. His major novels, including The Return of the Native and Jude the Obscure, are set in the semi-fictional region of Wessex and examine themes of fate, social class, and the conflict between human desires and societal norms. Hardy’s work often reflects a pessimistic worldview, influenced by his reading of Darwin and contemporary philosophy. After the harsh criticism of Jude the Obscure, he abandoned novel writing and focused on poetry, producing significant collections such as Wessex Poems. His literary legacy endures for his rich characterizations, evocative landscapes, and unflinching critique of Victorian society.
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