This blog is part of task on Thinking Activity - "Jude The Obscure" by Thomas Hardy. "Jude The Obscure" by Thomas Hardy topic which was given by professor Dr. Dilip Barad and for the reference of the task detail reading click here. Certainly, here's a unique and intriguing answers so, this blog is through out given under this topics...
1) What is the significance of epigraph written by Hardy - 'Letter Killeth' - for this novel, Jude the Obscure
2) Is it possible to connect the meaning of the epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of the novel and the myth of Bhasmasur?
3) Any one of the following along with the above given two points to ponder.
(i) Structure of the Novel 'Jude the Obscure' (ii)Research Article - Symbolic Indictment of Christianity - Norman Holland Jr. | Uni. of California
(iii) Research Article - Bildungsroman & Jude the Obscure - Frank R. Giordano Jr. | John Hopkins Uni [Refer to blog for video recordings on these three topics given above.]
* Information About Thomas Hardy:-
Thomas Hardy (1840-1928) was an English novelist and poet known for his significant contributions to English literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is renowned for his distinctive writing style, his works predominantly falling into the category of Victorian and Naturalist literature.* Writing Style:-
Thomas Hardy's writing style is characterized by several key elements:
1. Realism and Naturalism: Hardy's works often exhibit a strong sense of realism and naturalism. He depicted the harsh realities of rural life, social class distinctions, and the struggles of ordinary people in a way that was often unflinchingly honest.
2. Symbolism: Hardy frequently employed symbolism in his novels and poetry to convey deeper themes and meanings. For example, the natural landscape in his novels often symbolizes fate and the uncontrollable forces of life.
3. Use of Regionalism: Hardy was known for setting his stories in the rural landscapes of Wessex, a fictionalized version of the rural southwest of England, where he drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in a rural community.
4. Tragic Elements: Many of Hardy's works have a strong tragic element, often focusing on the suffering and thwarted ambitions of his characters. This tragic perspective is exemplified in novels like "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and "Jude the Obscure."
* Genre:-
Thomas Hardy primarily wrote in the following genres:
1. Novels: Some of his most famous novels include "Tess of the d'Urbervilles," "Far from the Madding Crowd," "The Return of the Native," and "The Mayor of Casterbridge." These novels are known for their exploration of social issues, the complexities of human relationships, and the impact of fate on individuals.
2. Poetry: Hardy was a poet as well, and his poetry often reflects themes similar to those found in his novels, such as the transitory nature of life, the passage of time, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world. His poetry collections include "Wessex Poems" and "Poems of 1912-13."
* Personal Connection with Literature:-
Thomas Hardy had a deep personal connection with literature and a lifelong passion for writing. Here are some aspects of his personal connection with literature:
1. Early Interest: Hardy displayed an early interest in literature, reading widely as a child and showing a penchant for storytelling.
2. Education: He received formal education and studied classics at King's College, London. His education and exposure to classical literature influenced his writing style.
3. Career Shift: Before becoming a full-time writer, Hardy worked as an architect. This background in architecture is reflected in his attention to detail in the settings and structures described in his novels.
4. Critique of Social Norms: Through his literature, Hardy critiqued the rigid social norms and moral constraints of Victorian society. He often challenged conventional beliefs about love, marriage, and the role of women.
5. Legacy: Thomas Hardy's works have had a lasting impact on English literature. His exploration of human nature, the influence of environment, and the inevitable forces of destiny continue to be subjects of study and discussion in literary circles.
In summary, Thomas Hardy's writing style is characterized by its realism, symbolism, and often tragic elements. He made significant contributions to Victorian and Naturalist literature through his novels and poetry, and his personal connection with literature was evident in his lifelong dedication to writing and his exploration of themes that were deeply meaningful to him.
* Answers:-
1) What is the significance of epigraph written by Hardy - 'Letter Killeth' - for this novel, "Jude the Obscure".
Ans:-
Thomas Hardy's epigraph to Jude the Obscure, "The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life," is a significant choice for the novel, given its themes of repression, hypocrisy, and the destructive power of institutionalized religion. The quote is from the Second Epistle to the Corinthians, in which the Apostle Paul is arguing against the strict adherence to the letter of the law over the spirit of the law. Paul argues that the law is not meant to be followed blindly, but rather to be interpreted in a way that is consistent with the spirit of the law, which is to promote love and compassion.
In Jude the Obscure, Hardy uses the epigraph to highlight the hypocrisy of the religious institutions that oppress Jude and Sue. The Church of England, in particular, is portrayed as a force for repression and death, rather than life. Jude and Sue are both punished by the Church for their unconventional love affair, and their relationship is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious disapproval.
The epigraph also speaks to the destructive power of dogma and ideology. Jude is a man who is passionate about learning and knowledge, but he is ultimately destroyed by his own inability to reconcile his beliefs with the dogmas of the Church. Sue is a woman who is fiercely independent and free-spirited, but she is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious expectations.
In the end, the epigraph suggests that it is important to question authority and to live one's life in accordance with the spirit of the law, rather than the letter of the law. Jude and Sue may have been victims of the Church and society, but their love story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to endure even in the face of great adversity.
- Here is a more detailed analysis of the epigraph's significance for the novel:
- The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.
In Jude the Obscure, Hardy uses this quote to criticize the religious institutions that oppress Jude and Sue. The Church of England, in particular, is portrayed as a force for repression and death, rather than life. Jude and Sue are both punished by the Church for their unconventional love affair, and their relationship is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious disapproval.
The epigraph also suggests that it is important to question authority and to live one's life in accordance with one's own beliefs, rather than blindly following the rules of others. Jude is a man who is passionate about learning and knowledge, but he is ultimately destroyed by his own inability to reconcile his beliefs with the dogmas of the Church. Sue is a woman who is fiercely independent and free-spirited, but she is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious expectations.
- The significance of the epigraph for the novel's themes:-
The epigraph is significant for the novel's themes of repression, hypocrisy, and the destructive power of institutionalized religion. It also speaks to the importance of questioning authority and living one's life in accordance with the spirit of the law, rather than the letter of the law.
- How the epigraph is reflected in the characters and plot of the novel:-
The epigraph is reflected in the characters and plot of the novel in a number of ways. For example, Jude is a man who is passionate about learning and knowledge, but he is ultimately destroyed by his own inability to reconcile his beliefs with the dogmas of the Church. Sue is a woman who is fiercely independent and free-spirited, but she is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious expectations.
The epigraph is also reflected in the novel's plot. For example, Jude and Sue are both punished by the Church for their unconventional love affair, and their relationship is ultimately destroyed by the weight of social and religious disapproval.
- Conclusion:-
2) Is it possible to connect the meaning of the epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of the novel and the myth of Bhasmasur?
Ans:-
Certainly, here are I provide a detailed analysis connecting the epigraph of 'Esdras' and the myth of Bhasmasur for the connection of both things.
The epigraph of a novel often serves as a literary device to provide readers with a thematic or contextual framework for the story that follows. In the case of 'Esdras,' it's important to first understand the content of the epigraph and then examine its potential connection to the Bhasmasur myth.
1) Epigraph of 'Esdras':
The epigraph of 'Esdras' reads: "In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer."
This quote is attributed to the famous French author and philosopher Albert Camus. It reflects the idea that even in the harshest and darkest moments of life, there exists an inner strength or resilience that can overcome adversity. This quote suggests a theme of inner resilience, the discovery of one's inner power, and the ability to find hope and warmth within oneself when facing challenging circumstances.
2) The Myth of Bhasmasur:
The myth of Bhasmasur is a Hindu legend that tells the story of a demon named Bhasmasur. Bhasmasur obtains a powerful boon from Lord Shiva, which grants him the ability to turn anyone to ashes by simply touching their head. However, Bhasmasur's newfound power becomes a curse, as he attempts to test it by pursuing Lord Shiva himself. In a twist of events, Lord Vishnu intervenes and takes on the form of a beautiful woman, Mohini, to outwit Bhasmasur. She dances gracefully and invites Bhasmasur to mimic her dance. In the process, she touches her own head, and Bhasmasur, in his attempt to copy her, touches his own head and turns himself to ashes.
*Connecting the Epigraph and the Myth:
Now, let's explore the connection between the epigraph and the Bhasmasur myth:
1. Inner Strength and Resilience: The epigraph by Albert Camus speaks to the idea of discovering inner strength and resilience during difficult times. This theme can be paralleled with the Bhasmasur myth. Bhasmasur's story, though tragic, also highlights the consequences of misusing one's power and the importance of self-awareness and inner control. It serves as a cautionary tale about the need to harness one's inner strength wisely.
2. Transformation and Self-Discovery: In both the epigraph and the Bhasmasur myth, there is an element of transformation. Bhasmasur transforms himself into ashes, and the epigraph suggests a personal transformation from darkness to inner "summer" or warmth. Both highlight the potential for personal growth and change.
3. Adversity and Redemption: The Bhasmasur myth involves a character who, in his quest for power, faces adversity and ultimately finds his own undoing. Similarly, the epigraph suggests that adversity can lead to self-discovery and redemption. It's in challenging times that individuals may uncover their inner resilience and overcome obstacles.
4. The Complexity of Human Nature: Both the epigraph and the Bhasmasur myth delve into the complexity of human nature. They illustrate that people are not solely defined by their powers or external circumstances but by their inner qualities, desires, and choices.
In conclusion, the epigraph from 'Esdras' by Albert Camus and the myth of Bhasmasur share themes of inner strength, transformation, adversity, and the complexity of human nature. While they come from different cultural backgrounds, they both offer insights into the human experience and the potential for personal growth and self-discovery, even in the face of challenging circumstances. The epigraph serves as a powerful introduction to the novel, setting the stage for a narrative that explores these universal themes.
3) Any one of the following along with the above given two points to ponder.
(i) Structure of the Novel 'Jude the Obscure'
(ii)Research Article - Symbolic Indictment of Christianity - Norman Holland Jr. | Uni. of California
(iii) Research Article - Bildungsroman & Jude the Obscure - Frank R. Giordano Jr. | John Hopkins Uni [Refer to blog for video recordings on these three topics given above.
Ans:-
Here I am answering the Question...
Structure of the Novel 'Jude the Obscure'.
for the observation I watched video which was recorded and presented by Dr. Dilip Barad.
Through this video, I understood and observed many things like those mentioned here...
In this beginning of novel we find that in that between Jude and Sue reversal of belief, Attitude and thinking. They both go down to defeat. In the beginning of the novel, Sue's view was secular, rationalist, sympathy with ancient rather than medieval culture. Her scorn for conventional religious belief, buying pagan statue, reading of Giben.
Jude was conventionally Christian, His desire to be ordain, his reading of standard authors love of medieval culture and architecture shows. he was believe in love, compassion which was basic element of Christianity. At the end of novel sue convert in saintity of marriage and her desire to perform penance sins. In the structure of novel I observed also that concept of heaven connection and penance.
we find in novel that change in belief is parallel by their marital relationships. In the middle of novel the reason behind Jude and Sue's separation was also because of apart in belief and then they go back to their spouses. Jude's death as failure in Christ minister and Sue's forcing herself to go to Phillotson's bed are striking science of their defeat in life.
This defeat is mirrored as well in Phillotson who at marry green has fallen to the bottom professionally and who stiffly requires Sue to swear to lessor treatment in Arabella Who though she looses Jude does not have vitality. In changes and defeat hardy has embodied the theme of novel. Jude and Sue have been caught up in modern spirit.
They have struggle to break free of the old ways and at the end they suffered and failed. It is this that justifies Hardy's description of the novel in the preface where he says tragedy of "Unfulfilled Aims".
Matthew Arnold told about the modern spirit modern spirit just like, "Something is going wrong with society . More and people are moving towards modernity , But modern spirit kind of evil modern spirit which will lead towards chaotic life not lead towards happiness in life." Hardy influenced with that and after he wrote tragic end indicates that modernity indicates or became the reason of downfall because it's wrong path according him and hardy conditioned and coloured by time.
J. S. Mill wrote about liberty and lady's freedom but society not accept that thoughts that's why hardy wants to gave strength to traditional people's mindset in modern way because all the writer's are modern of their own times but they can't avoid or negotiate social structure and mindset in direct way that's why he gave strength like this novel's end and create the structure of this novel with this point of view.
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