# Phase the Fifth: The Woman Pays explained — Tess of the d’Urbervilles

> Chapter companion for Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy.

## What happens

After their wedding, Angel Clare confesses to Tess his past indiscretions, and Tess, feeling compelled, confesses her own history with Alec d'Urberville. Angel is unable to forgive her, and they separate. Tess returns to her family, and Angel leaves for Brazil. Tess faces hardship and eventually encounters Alec again, who has become a preacher but still pursues her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Female Purity and Double Standards

Tess's confession reveals the double standard where Angel's past is forgiven but Tess's is not, highlighting societal hypocrisy.

### Love and Marriage

The chapter explores the fragility of love and marriage when confronted with truth and societal expectations.

## Character check-ins

### Tess Durbeyfield

Tess confesses her past to Angel after their wedding, leading to their separation. She later faces poverty and is pursued by Alec.

### Angel Clare

Angel confesses his own past to Tess but cannot accept her confession, leading him to leave for Brazil.

### Alec d'Urberville

Alec reappears as a preacher but continues to pursue Tess, eventually convincing her to return to him.

### Joan Durbeyfield

Joan is present when Tess returns home after the separation, and she tries to support Tess.

### Jack Durbeyfield

Jack is at home when Tess returns, and his condition adds to the family's struggles.

## Key lines

> The woman pays.

Tess bears the consequences of her past while Angel does not.

_This phrase encapsulates the theme of double standards and Tess's suffering._

> I will not try to make you forgive me.

Tess accepts Angel's judgment and does not beg for forgiveness.

_Shows Tess's resignation and the power imbalance in their relationship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tess_of_the_d_urbervilles_se/chapters/phase-the-fifth-the-woman-pays
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tess_of_the_d_urbervilles_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tess_of_the_d_urbervilles_se/chapters