THOMAS HARDY Ultimate Collection: 15 Novels, 53 Short Stories & 650+ Poems (Illustrated Edition) (ePub)

Thomas Hardy (1840-1928), an eminent English novelist and poet, remains a significant figure in the annals of Victorian literature. Born in the rural district of Dorset, Hardy drew inspiration from the rustic landscape and the lives of common folk, which became essential backdrops in his works. His contributions are not confined to any single genre, but he is best remembered for his poignant novels which often illuminate the struggles of individuals against the inexorable forces of nature and society. Notable among his literary creations is the 'Wessex Novels,' a series of narratives that constructed a semi-fictional region named Wessex, used to explore various dimensions of human existence and moral dilemmas. Hardy's major works include 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles,' 'Far from the Madding Crowd,' 'The Mayor of Casterbridge,' and 'Jude the Obscure,' which together reflect his distinctive style marked by a blend of romanticism, naturalism, and a pervasive sense of pessimism. His prose is distinguished by rich description, fatalistic themes, and the exploration of tragic characters destined to suffer under the arbitrary laws of the universe. Hardy's poetry, which he turned to later in life, also exhibits his mastery of language, though it has been historically overshadowed by his novelistic achievements. The expansive collection, 'THOMAS HARDY Ultimate Collection: 15 Novels, 53 Short Stories & 650+ Poems (Illustrated Edition),' serves as a testament to Hardy's prolific output and the enduring influence of his literary legacy.