As a modern novel, Jude the Obscure is notable for its realism. It presents characters who are ordinary people with ordinary problems, not the heroic or idealized figures often found in earlier literature. The novel also delves into themes of disillusionment. Jude starts with great hopes and dreams, but as the story progresses, he faces one setback after another. This sense of disillusionment with life, love, and the pursuit of knowledge is a key feature of many modern novels.
Jude the Obscure as a modern novel shows a break from traditional narrative structures. It has a rather bleak and unromantic view of life. For instance, the relationship between Jude and Sue is not a typical love story but is full of contradictions and moral dilemmas. This reflects the modernist tendency to question and subvert the old ideals of love and relationships. Moreover, it portrays the individual's struggle against society's norms in a very realistic way.
Well, in 'Jude the Obscure', a major theme is the power of society over the individual. Jude's life is largely shaped by the social expectations and restrictions of his time. He wants to study at the university in Christminster but is held back by his lack of money and social standing. The theme of love is complex too. His relationship with Sue is unconventional and goes against the norms, leading to a great deal of internal and external conflict. Plus, the novel touches on the theme of despair, as Jude gradually loses hope in his dreams and in life itself.
The main reason is the characters' unfulfilled dreams and the harsh social circumstances they face. Jude's constant struggle and failure to achieve his goals, along with the restrictions imposed by society, lead to a tragic outcome.
Jude the Obscure is fiction. It tells a story that is not based on actual facts or real people's experiences. It's a creation of the author to entertain and explore various themes through fictional characters and their circumstances.
Jude Fawley is the most important character. He is the central figure whose dreams and struggles drive the story. Then there is Sue Bridehead. She has a complex relationship with Jude and her own independent and rebellious nature adds to the plot. Phillotson is also important. He is involved in the love triangle with Jude and Sue, and his actions and decisions have an impact on the story.
Jude the Obscure represents modernity as a novel by challenging the established social and moral codes. It doesn't simply accept the status quo but rather questions the fairness of the class system, the institution of marriage, and religious dogma. This kind of critical examination of society was becoming more prevalent in modern novels. Also, the way it portrays the characters' inner lives, with all their insecurities and doubts, is in line with the modernist focus on the psychological state of the individual.
Well, one major difference is the focus on the protagonist's intellectual and educational aspirations. In Jude the Obscure, this aspect is central and drives the plot, which isn't as prominent in other Hardy novels. Also, the ending is particularly bleak and tragic, setting it apart.
Jude Deveraux novels usually have a great sense of time and place. For example, some of her works are set in historical periods, which she describes in detail, from the architecture to the social customs. Also, her characters often go through personal growth and transformation throughout the story, making them very relatable to readers.
Obscure dystopian novels often have a unique take on a future gone wrong. They might focus on niche aspects of society, like in 'The Handmaid's Tale' where it's all about gender roles in a extreme way. They also tend to be less well - known, so they might not have the mass - market appeal but can be very thought - provoking.
Great obscure novels often have complex themes. They might explore deep psychological states or philosophical ideas that are not immediately obvious. For example, in 'The Recognitions', the exploration of authenticity in art and self is very intricate. Another characteristic is unique narrative styles. 'At Swim - Two - Birds' has a very unconventional way of telling the story, which can be both confusing and fascinating at the same time. Also, they may not have received wide commercial acclaim but are highly regarded by a niche group of readers who appreciate their depth and originality.
Well, obscure literary fiction typically features a unique use of language. The authors might play with words, create new terms, or use archaic language. It also tends to have a small but dedicated readership, as it doesn't conform to mainstream literary trends. For example, some obscure works might focus on very niche historical periods or cultural phenomena that are not widely known.