Nature Quote by Thomas Hardy
““Yes. I—I can't help liking her—just a little bit! She's not an ungenerous nature; and I am so glad her difficulties have all suddenly ended." She explained how Arabella had been summoned back, and would be enabled to retrieve her position. "I was referring to our old question. What Arabella has been saying to me has made me feel more than ever how hopelessly vulgar an institution legal marriage is—a sort of trap to catch a man—I can't bear to think of it. I wish I hadn't promised to let you put up the banns this morning!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Tess of the d'Urbervilles, 1891
He critiques marriage as a restrictive trap, expressing frustration and relief at its end.
In simple terms: Marriage feels restrictive and oppressive.
Question societal expectations.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- legal commitments
- social pressure
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is marriage inherently oppressive?
- What alternatives exist?
May overlook benefits of partnership.