Thomas Hardy (1840-1928) was a highly esteemed English writer and poet who challenged societal norms through his literary works. His compassion towards the struggles of women and the working class was reflected in his writings. Despite not serving in the First World War, Hardy's poems expressed strong anti-war sentiments.
Born on June 2nd, 1840 in Dorchester, England, to Thomas and Jemima Hardy, Thomas was heavily influenced by his rural surroundings, which later shaped his writing style. He received his education at a private school in Dorchester, but chose not to pursue university studies. Instead, he worked as an architect while pursuing his passion for poetry.
Hardy's literary career took off with the publication of his successful novel, "Far from the Madding Crowd" in 1874. He also gained recognition for his poetry, which challenged societal norms. Despite not actively participating in the war, Hardy's poems strongly conveyed his aversion towards war. In 1874, he married Emma Gifford, who remained his wife until her death in 1912. Hardy then remarried in 1914 to Florence Dugdale, but did not have any children with either of his wives.
On January 11th, 1928, Hardy passed away from cardiovascular syncope and old age. His ashes were laid to rest in Westminster Abbey's Poets Corner, while his heart was buried in a churchyard in his hometown of Dorset, England.
Hardy's poetic works have stood the test of time, and here are some of his most notable pieces.
Written in 1886, Hardy's 'The Ruined Maid' tells the story of two women who reunite after some time and discuss the changes in their lives. Through this poem, Hardy shines a light on the societal constraints imposed on women regarding their sexuality. He cleverly critiques the double standards by presenting one of the women, who has been labeled "ruined" for having sexual relations outside marriage, now living a luxurious life with a wealthy man. This contrasts with the other woman, who is still living in poverty despite adhering to society's expectations of a virtuous woman.
"You used to call home-life a hag-ridden dream, And you'd sigh, and you'd sock; but at present you seem To know not of megrims or melancho-ly!" — "True. One's pretty lively when ruined," said she. (l.17-20)
Written between 1895 and 1896, Hardy's 'In Tenebris' (Latin for 'in the darkness') portrays the speaker's emotions through their depiction of the bleak and desolate natural landscape. The speaker's internal feelings of despair and hopelessness are highlighted by the barren winter setting. Hardy questions the concept of hope and leaves the reader with a sense of being trapped and despondent.
Black is night's cope;But death will not appalOne who, past doubtings all,Waits in unhope. (l.21-24)
Written in 1902, 'The Man He Killed' is a dramatic monologue where a soldier reflects on killing a man during the war. Through this poem, Hardy expresses his anti-war sentiments as the speaker comes to the realization that the enemy soldier they killed was just another human being. He emphasizes the futility of war and how soldiers are often manipulated into believing that violence and bloodshed are justifiable in war.
The Man He Killed
Had he and I but met
By some old ancient inn,
We should have sat us down to wet
Right many a nipperkin!
And whether he was appalled
By what he'd done, or no,
That, if he had, he might have fared
So in concluzion-zo!
It was queer and curious soldiering
In the ranks of the Battalion
When the lads lined up and drilled them
As the service poets know.
But the kind of dead took care at least
Fate held no beggar's chalice.
As he pondered heart and head
This what the man said ...
"But ranged as infantry,
And staring face to face,
I shot at him and he at me
And killed him in his place.
As I sit comfortably at home, I can't help but think of the soldier lying in his brown grave. He probably enlisted in the army, thinking it would be an easy feat, but ended up facing the harsh realities of war. The speed and innocence of his youth were swept away by the unnaturally quick progression of death. It's a sad truth that war claims the lives of so many young soldiers, leaving behind shattered families and loved ones.
But as I ponder about the impact of war, a different thought crosses my mind. I recall the British authority's question to me, an English poet, about my views on German wages for the war. In response, I wrote the poem 'In Time of The Breaking Nations' in 1915, expressing my disdain for all the destruction and lives lost due to war.
Through the use of dramatic monologue, I assumed the voice of a British soldier, addressing a German soldier (represented as 'Dear German') on the futility and consequences of war. I touched upon the powerful themes of nature, love, and humanity, stating that while war may seem all-consuming, it will eventually be forgotten. But the simple joys of nature and the eternity of love will continue to endure.
Thomas Hardy, an English poet, is best known for his novels, but he was also a prolific poet, using poetry as a medium to express his thoughts on humanity, social issues, and love. He was unafraid to challenge societal norms and customs, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates with readers today.
The poem 'In Time of The Breaking Nations' is an elegy, a form of poetry that mourns the loss of someone or something. In this case, it mourns the devastation of war. Hardy's use of the phrase 'breaking nations' highlights the destructive nature of war and its impact on not just individuals, but entire countries.
In addition to his well-known novels, Thomas Hardy also wrote several other notable works, including the novel 'Far from the Madding Crowd' and 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'.
Set in rural England, 'Far from the Madding Crowd' tells the story of Gabriel Oak, a farmer and shepherd, who falls in love with Bathsheba Everdene, a woman who does not return his affections. Through the character of Bathsheba, Hardy highlights the struggles faced by women and the importance of independence and inner strength.
"I am not capable of the love you believe I possess. My childhood in a cold world has stripped me of gentleness." (Chapter 31)
'The Mayor of Casterbridge' revolves around Michael Henchard, a man who sells his wife and daughter while under the influence of alcohol. The novel follows his journey through the highs and lows of success and failure, showing that fate and redemption are intertwined.
"Happiness was a fleeting moment in a life full of pain." (Chapter X)
Through his poignant and thought-provoking works, Thomas Hardy has left a lasting impact on the world, reminding us to reflect on our humanity and the consequences of our actions.
In the year 1891, Thomas Hardy released his masterpiece, "Tess of the D'Urbervilles," a tragic story following the life of Tess Durbeyfield and her family's struggles with poverty. When her father discovers their noble ancestry, Tess is sent to claim their inheritance, but her pursuit of a better life has unexpected consequences.
At times, ignorance may seem like bliss. Is it worth knowing that we are mere copies of others, recorded in old books, living out their predetermined roles? This realization brings only heartache. (ch.19)
Thomas Hardy may not have experienced the horrors of war firsthand, but his writing resonates with his anti-war views and recognition of the fragility of life, nature, and love. His works continue to captivate readers, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of society during his time.
