Thomas Hardy was the foremost novelist of his time, as well as an established poet. Author of Jude the Obscure and Far from the Madding Crowd, Hardy reflected in his works the dynamics of social, intellectual and aesthetic change in nineteenth-century England.
This guide provides students with a lucid introduction to Hardy's life and works and the basis for a sound comprehension of his work, including:

• the major aspects of Hardy's life in the context of contemporary culture
• a detailed commentary on Hardy's most important work and a critical map...