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Life Quote by Thomas Hardy

“Despite his heterodoxy, faults, and weaknesses, Clare was a man with a conscience. Tess was no insignificant creature to toy with and dismiss; but a woman living her precious life—a life which, to herself who endured or enjoyed it, possessed as great a dimension as the life of the mightiest to…” quote by Thomas Hardy
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““Despite his heterodoxy, faults, and weaknesses, Clare was a man with a conscience. Tess was no insignificant creature to toy with and dismiss; but a woman living her precious life—a life which, to herself who endured or enjoyed it, possessed as great a dimension as the life of the mightiest to himself. Upon her sensations the whole world depended to Tess; through her existence all her fellow-creatures existed, to her. The universe itself only came into being for Tess on the particular day in the particular year in which she was born.””

Thomas Hardy

About This Quote

Source Novel: Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, 1891

The quote emphasizes Tess's profound humanity and centrality, suggesting her existence gives meaning to the world and even the universe.

In simple terms: Tess is vital and her life matters deeply.

Key Takeaway

Recognize each person's inherent worth.

Themes

humanity existence meaning empathy

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • literary analysis
  • ethical discussions
  • psychological reflection

Key Concepts

existentialism subjectivity feminist perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing another's humanity change your behavior?
  • What limits exist to viewing any one life as universe‑defining?
A Different Perspective

It may overstate individual significance, ignoring collective interdependence.

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