Abstract

Thomas Hardy is one of the most important British novelists who have made great contribution to the English literary history. In his life, he created many impressive literary figures, most of whom are men with tragic endings, including Henchard the mayor in the Mayor of Casterbridge. Hardy is not a feminist, but with a detailed reading of his novels, his concern for the women in the patriarchal society is obvious. He really cares about women’s destiny in his novels. Both New and Traditional women are described in his works; however, most of the women in his works have tragic endings except Elizabeth Jane in the Mayor of Casterbridge. This paper will interpret the novel from the perspective of Elizabeth Jane. It will explore the factors that lead to the happy ending for Elizabeth. Her unique upbringing, her passion for knowledge, her fighting spirit all make her a remarkable independent woman in the novel.

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