Jude the obscure - Thomas Hardy

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 Krishna Baraiya's blog

ThAct: Jude



Introduction : 

"Jude the Obscure" is a novel written by Thomas Hardy, first published in 1895. It is considered one of Hardy's most controversial and tragic works. The story centers around Jude Fawley, a young man of humble origins with dreams of becoming a scholar, and his struggles against the social, economic, and personal obstacles that prevent him from achieving his aspirations. Jude's life is marked by complex relationships, particularly with two women: Sue Bridehead, his intellectual and emotional counterpart, and Arabella Donn, whom he marries.

The novel explores themes of social class, marriage, education, and the limitations placed on individuals by society, particularly focusing on the constraints imposed on women. Hardy critiques Victorian social norms and religious beliefs, presenting a bleak view of life and human suffering. "Jude the Obscure" was met with mixed reactions, with some critics praising its bold social commentary, while others criticized its perceived pessimism and controversial treatment of marriage and sexuality. Despite its initial backlash, it remains a significant work in English literature, offering a powerful exploration of human desire, ambition, and despair.

The epigraph "The Letter Killeth" :


The epigraph "The Letter Killeth" at the beginning of "Jude the Obscure" is a powerful biblical reference taken from 2 Corinthians 3:6, which states: "the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." This phrase implies that rigid adherence to the literal interpretation of laws, doctrines, and social norms (the "letter") can destroy true human spirit and understanding, which require empathy and flexibility (the "spirit"). 

In the context of "Jude the Obscure", this epigraph underscores Hardy’s critique of the oppressive nature of societal institutions—particularly those governing education, marriage, and religion. Jude Fawley, the protagonist, aspires to a life of intellectual and emotional fulfillment, yet he constantly faces social and institutional barriers that stifle his ambitions and restrict his personal choices. His struggles with education highlight the barriers imposed by rigid social class structures, while his personal relationships—particularly with Sue Bridehead—are weighed down by the conventions and legalities surrounding marriage and sexuality.

Hardy’s epigraph emphasizes that these rigid systems and "letters" (rules, doctrines, and norms) can figuratively "kill" the spirit of individuals by forcing them into paths that deny their true aspirations and emotional needs. Throughout the novel, characters like Jude and Sue suffer deeply because they are unable to live authentically within a society that values conformity over the individual human spirit. Thus, Hardy’s use of this epigraph points to his theme of the suffocating effect of societal and institutional constraints on human happiEsdras'


Esdras & Bhasmasur :


Yes, there is an interesting connection between the epigraph from 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of "Jude the Obscure" and the myth of Bhasmasur from Hindu mythology. Both references illuminate a theme central to Hardy’s novel: the destructive potential of ambition when it turns against the seeker.

The epigraph from 'Esdras' reads: "I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times." This suggests reflection on humanity’s age-old struggles and the pursuit of knowledge, power, and success. Jude Fawley, the novel's protagonist, embodies this yearning for a better life through education and personal growth. Yet, despite his noble aspirations, Jude’s ambitions are ultimately thwarted by society’s restrictions and his own flawed judgments, leading to his suffering and despair.

Similarly, the myth of Bhasmasur tells of a demon who, through severe penance, is granted a powerful boon by Lord Shiva: the ability to reduce anyone he touches to ashes. But instead of using this gift wisely, Bhasmasur is overcome by hubris and tries to test his newfound power on Shiva himself. Ultimately, his ambition backfires, leading to his own destruction when he falls victim to his own boon. 

Both the epigraph and the Bhasmasur myth underscore a paradox: ambitions that drive individuals to reach beyond their natural limits can also be self-destructive. Jude's quest for knowledge and a better life mirrors Bhasmasur's pursuit of power. In the end, both characters are "destroyed" by their ambitions, which the institutions and social norms of their worlds turn against them.

Thus, Hardy’s choice of the 'Esdras' epigraph reflects the cautionary nature of unbridled aspiration, paralleling the moral of the Bhasmasur myth. Both suggest that the structures and ambitions that promise enlightenment or empowerment can lead to devastation if they are pursued without a sense of balance and awareness of one’s limitations.


The structure : Jude the obscure 



The structure of Thomas Hardy's "Jude the Obscure" is notably intricate, reflecting the complex and often tragic lives of its characters. Hardy employs a layered, episodic structure that breaks into distinct parts, each advancing the novel's themes of disillusionment, desire, and societal constraint. Here’s an outline of its structure:

 

1. Divided into Six Parts or “Books”
  


 - Hardy divides "Jude the Obscure" into six books, each representing a different phase in Jude’s life: his ambitions, relationships, and evolving disillusionments. These divisions help trace Jude’s emotional and intellectual growth—and eventual decline—as he confronts various obstacles in his journey.

 

2. A Chronological Narrative with Key Turning Points


  
 - The novel follows a relatively straightforward chronological progression, although it does use selective shifts in focus to highlight Jude’s inner life and the social challenges he faces. Each book often has a climax or pivotal event that shifts the trajectory of Jude’s life, particularly as he interacts with Arabella, Sue, and the institutions he aspires to join.


3. Alternating Character Focus


   
- While Jude is the primary protagonist, Hardy also shifts to Sue Bridehead’s perspective at various points. Sue’s complex relationship with Jude and her unconventional worldview create a tension that challenges both characters’ beliefs and drives much of the plot.


4. Use of Symbolism and Imagery to Structure Themes


   
- Hardy's structure also integrates heavy symbolism, with events or objects (like Christminster) acting as symbols of Jude’s aspirations. The breakdown of his ambitions and relationships parallels the structure, as each book moves him further away from his ideals, culminating in a bleak, almost nihilistic tone.


 5. Tragic and Ironic Circularity


   
- The structure emphasizes tragedy and irony, with each step Jude takes seemingly bringing him closer to ruin. The end, where Jude is left destitute and broken, circles back to the disillusionments he faced early on, reinforcing Hardy's commentary on the limitations imposed by society and fate.


6. Influence of Classical Tragedy


  
 - Hardy’s structure borrows from classical tragedy, with Jude’s ‘fatal flaw’ (his idealism and persistence) and the slow unraveling of his dreams. This tragic framework heightens the novel’s emotional impact, as each structural part contributes to Jude’s inevitable downfall.

Overall, Hardy’s structural choices in "Jude the Obscure" emphasize the emotional and thematic intensity of the novel, highlighting the inescapable social and personal constraints his characters face.

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