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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…” quote by Thomas Hardy
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““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!””

Thomas Hardy

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.

Key Takeaway

Question societal expectations.

Themes

marriage freedom frustration

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • legal commitments
  • social pressure

Key Concepts

social contract gender roles

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is marriage inherently oppressive?
  • What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective

May overlook benefits of partnership.

2.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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