The Woodlanders

By Thomas Hardy

Subjects: Historical Fiction, England, fiction, Triangles (Interpersonal relations) -- Fiction, Pastoral fiction, Love stories, Fiction, general, Psychological fiction, Marriage, fiction, Romance, Arranged marriage, Manners and customs, Arranged marriage -- Fiction, Wessex (england), fiction, Social classes, Fiction, Great britain, fiction, Children's fiction, Drama, Social life and customs, Social classes -- Fiction, British and irish fiction (fictional works by one author), Forests and forestry, Fiction, romance, general, English literature, Forests and forestry -- Fiction, Dorset (England) -- Fiction, Fiction, psychological, Classic Literature, Triangles (Interpersonal relations), Fiction in English

Description: When country-girl Grace Melbury returns home from her middle-class school she feels she has risen above her suitor, the simple woodsman Giles Winterborne. Though marriage had been discussed between her and Giles, Grace finds herself captivated by Dr Edred Fitzpiers, a sophisticated newcomer to the area - a relationship that is encouraged by her socially ambitious father. Hardy's novel of betrayal, disillusionment and moral compromise depicts a secluded community coming to terms with the disastrous impact of outside influences. And in his portrayal of Giles Winterborne, Hardy shows a man who responds deeply to the forces of the natural world, thought they ultimately betray him.