Parallels between novel and modern society
Thomas Hardy was a literary revolutionist, who was not afraid of controversy and public disagreement. He supported suffrage, spoke up about taboo topics in Victorian society – social and economic vulnerability of women, their dependence on men, double standards, patriarchy. Women were shamed and punished for the same actions that brought men glory. A lot has changed since 1880s, but some problems still prevail.
In some parts of the world, girls are still inferior to boys, do not have access to education, high positions in government, are paid lower wages, they are forced into arranged marriages to ensure economical stability for their family. This relates to Tess’ pursuit of wealth at the d’Urberville manor, which eventually caused her doom.
If a 21st century model walked into a room full of Victorian age people, she would be verbally devoured by women, shamed for her revealing clothing, not behaving modestly, and not being a slave to patriarchy. After suffering that, there is a relatively high chance of her being sexually assaulted by at least one of the men, who would find a way to justify their actions and not feel any remorse.
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