Loss

• Loss


  a dominant theme in Tess of the D'Urbervilles, representing the destruction of purity, innocence, and happiness
• Innocence


  Tess's innocence is destroyed through her loss of virginity and subsequent shame
• Social Status


  The D'Urberville family loses their social status and heritage due to their connection to the aristocratic D'Urbervilles
• Loss of Identity


  Tess's marriage to Angel and her subsequent abandonment lead to a loss of her sense of self and connection to her past
• Loss of Confidence

  Tess's repeated experiences with loss and betrayal erode her confidence, making her feel passive and helpless
• Loss of Innocence


  Tess's experience with Alec leads to a loss of her innocence and a change in her perception of herself and the world
• Toxic Relationship

  Tess's experience with Alec leads to a toxic and damaging relationship due to her loss of innocence
• Abandonment


  Angel's abandonment of Tess creates a sense of rejection and loss, damaging their relationship
• Social Isolation


  Tess's repeated experiences with loss and betrayal lead to social isolation and loneliness, making it difficult for her to form connections with others
• Death of Prince


  Tess's son's death drives her to make desperate decisions, inciting the rest of the novel's actions
• Desperation

  The loss of Prince leads to Tess's desperation, which drives her to take risks and make choices that ultimately lead to her downfall
• Manipulation


  Alec takes advantage of Tess's grief and desperation, manipulating her into meeting him at the fair, leading to tragic consequences