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ASSIGNMENT
Name :
Haseena Iman
Class:
BS-English ( 6th semester)
Roll-no:
20044
Subject:
Novel (18th to 19th century)
Instructor:
Mam . Sheeza
Institute:
Government College And Women University Sialkot
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Give the brief introduction of Thomas Hardy and His writing style.
 Introduction

Thomas Hardy (1840-1928) was an English novelist and poet, widely regarded as one of
the greatest writers of the Victorian era. He is known for his profound exploration of
human nature, intricate characterizations, and vivid depictions of rural life in
England. Hardy's works often reflect the tensions between traditional values and the
changing social and moral landscape of his time.

 Writing style:

Hardy's writing style is characterized by its realism and lyrical beauty. He masterfully
captured the essence of the English countryside, emphasizing the close relationship
between nature and the lives of his characters. His descriptions are vivid and detailed,
immersing readers in the physical and emotional landscapes of his stories.

 Writings’ Aspects:

One of the notable aspects of Hardy's writing is his portrayal of complex and flawed
characters. He delves deeply into their psychology, exploring their desires, passions, and
conflicts. Hardy's characters often struggle against the restrictive social conventions and
fate, facing tragic consequences and unfulfilled aspirations.

 Themes:

Hardy's novels frequently deal with themes such as love, marriage, class divisions, and
the decline of rural communities. His works, including "Tess of the d'Urbervilles," "Far
from the Madding Crowd," and "The Mayor of Casterbridge," are renowned for their
powerful storytelling, moral complexity, and his unflinching examination of the human
condition.

Introduction of “Under the Greenwood Tress” by Thomas hardy.

"Under the Greenwood Tree" is a novel written by Thomas Hardy, published in 1872. It
is one of Hardy's early works and is considered a pastoral romance, capturing the idyllic
rural life and exploring themes of love, tradition, and social change.
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Setting of the novel:

The novel is set in the fictional Wessex countryside, a region that often appears in
Hardy's works. It focuses on the lives of a group of church musicians known as the
Mellstock Quire. Led by their choirmaster, Dick Dewy, the members of the Quire play
music at the local church and are an integral part of the village community.

Time changes:

The story unfolds against the backdrop of the changing times, as the traditional customs
and way of life in rural England face challenges from modernization and progress. The
central conflict arises when the newly appointed vicar, Parson Maybold, introduces a
harmonium in the church, intending to replace the traditional choral music with organ
music. This change disrupts the longstanding traditions of the Mellstock Quire and sparks
tension within the community.

Complexities exploration:

The novel explores the complexities of love and relationships through the romantic
entanglements of its characters. Dick Dewy finds himself torn between his affection for
the vicar's daughter, Fancy Day, and his childhood sweetheart, Unity Sallet. The story
delves into themes of social class, marriage, and the struggle between tradition and
modernity.

Depiction of nature:

"Under the Greenwood Tree" is celebrated for its vivid depiction of rural life, its
memorable characters, and its portrayal of the tensions between old customs and the
encroachment of modernity. It showcases Hardy's ability to capture the essence of the
English countryside, while also examining the human experiences and emotions that lie
beneath the surface of seemingly tranquil lives.

Importance of title:

The title of the novel is derived from a famous line in Shakespeare's play "As You Like
It," which reflects the pastoral and romantic nature of Hardy's work. "Under the
Greenwood Tree" remains a beloved piece of Hardy's early literary output, illustrating his
talent for blending rustic charm with profound insights into the human condition.
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Reasons of writing Under the Greenwood trees .

Thomas Hardy had several reasons for writing "Under the Greenwood Tree." Here are
some of the key motivations behind the creation of the novel:

 Portrayal of Rural Life: Hardy wanted to depict the rural life and traditions of
his native region, Wessex. He aimed to capture the essence of the English
countryside, its landscapes, customs, and the close-knit communities that inhabited
these areas. "Under the Greenwood Tree" provides a vivid portrayal of rural life,
showcasing the beauty, simplicity, and challenges faced by the people living in
such communities.

 Critique of Modernization: The novel reflects Hardy's concern with the

encroachment of modernity and the erosion of traditional values and customs. The
introduction of the harmonium and the potential replacement of the Mellstock
Quire's choral music with organ music symbolize the clash between old and new,
traditional and modern. By highlighting this conflict, Hardy critiques the impact of
progress on rural communities and their way of life.

 Love and Relationships: "Under the Greenwood Tree" explores the complexities
of love and relationships. Hardy delves into themes of courtship, social class, and
the challenges faced by individuals in pursuing romantic desires. Through the
character of Dick Dewy, torn between his love for Fancy Day and his loyalty to
Unity Sallet, Hardy presents the complexities of human emotions and the
consequences of choices made in matters of the heart.

 Nostalgia and Sentimentality: The novel carries a sense of nostalgia and

sentimentality for a bygone era. Hardy evokes a romanticized vision of the past,
celebrating the simplicity and beauty of rural life before the forces of progress
transformed it. By evoking a sense of longing for the past, Hardy invites readers to
reflect on the changes occurring in society and the potential loss of cherished
traditions.
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 Humor and Satire: "Under the Greenwood Tree" exhibits Hardy's skill for
employing humor and satire. He uses witty dialogue, humorous incidents, and
ironic observations to entertain readers while also making pointed social
commentaries. Through the portrayal of eccentric characters and comedic
situations, Hardy infuses the narrative with lightness and amusement.

These reasons collectively demonstrate Hardy's desire to portray rural life, comment on
social changes, explore themes of love and relationships, evoke nostalgia, and engage
readers through humor and satire. "Under the Greenwood Tree" stands as a testament
to Hardy's ability to intertwine multiple themes and motivations into a compelling
and insightful narrative.

Examination of the characters of Under the Greenwood trees.

"Under the Greenwood Tree" features a range of memorable and well-drawn characters,
each contributing to the narrative and reflecting different aspects of rural life. Here is an
examination of some of the notable characters in the novel:

 Dick Dewy: The protagonist and leader of the Mellstock Quire, Dick Dewy is a
kind-hearted and loyal young man. He is torn between his love for Fancy Day, the
vicar's daughter, and his childhood sweetheart, Unity Sallet. Dick represents the
struggle between tradition and modernity, as he grapples with his feelings and
societal expectations.

 Fancy Day: The daughter of the new vicar, Fancy is a beautiful and charming
woman who captures the attention of many men in the village, including Dick
Dewy. She embodies the allure of modernity and change, often at odds with the
traditional values of the Mellstock community. Fancy's choices and actions have a
significant impact on the relationships and dynamics within the novel.

 Parson Maybold: The new vicar of Mellstock, Parson Maybold introduces the
harmonium to the church, disrupting the traditional choral music of the Mellstock
Quire. He represents the forces of modernization and progress, often clashing with
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the more conservative members of the community. Parson Maybold's decisions

and actions spark tension and conflict within the village.

 Reuben Dewy: Dick's father and a member of the Mellstock Quire, Reuben is a
kind and gentle man. He serves as a moral compass and a source of wisdom for
the other characters. Reuben embodies the traditions and values of the rural
community, providing stability and guidance amidst the changes happening
around them.

 Unity Sallet: Dick's childhood sweetheart, Unity is a strong-willed and resilient

woman. She represents the embodiment of traditional rural life and becomes a
symbol of the village's resistance to change. Unity's unyielding love for Dick and
her unwavering loyalty to her community add depth and emotional intensity to the
story.

 Thomas Leaf: A fellow member of the Mellstock Quire, Thomas Leaf is a

humorous and good-natured character. He often provides comic relief through his
wit and antics. Thomas Leaf's presence showcases the camaraderie and bond
within the Quire and adds a lighthearted touch to the narrative.

These are just a few of the key characters in "Under the Greenwood Tree." Thomas
Hardy skillfully develops a diverse cast, representing different perspectives, desires,
and struggles within the rural community. Through their interactions and conflicts,
Hardy explores themes of love, tradition, social change, and the complexities of
human relationships.

Critical analysis of Under the Greenwood trees by Thomas hardy .

"Under the Greenwood Tree" by Thomas Hardy has been critically analyzed and
celebrated for its unique blend of pastoral charm, social commentary, and exploration of
human relationships. Here are some key aspects of critical analysis related to the novel:
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 Depiction of Rural Life: Hardy's vivid and detailed portrayal of rural life in
"Under the Greenwood Tree" has been widely praised. He captures the beauty,
rhythms, and traditions of the English countryside, painting a nostalgic and
romanticized picture of a bygone era. Critics have lauded Hardy's ability to evoke
a sense of place and immerse readers in the idyllic landscapes and communities of
Wessex.

 Clash of Tradition and Modernity: The novel explores the conflict between
traditional values and the encroachment of modernity. The introduction of the
harmonium by Parson Maybold symbolizes the disruption of long-established
customs and the erosion of the Mellstock Quire's role in the community. Critics
have interpreted this clash as Hardy's critique of the societal changes brought
about by industrialization and the loss of traditional ways of life.

 Complex Characters and Relationships: Hardy's skillful characterization and

exploration of human relationships are central to the novel's appeal. Critics have
noted the depth and complexity of characters like Dick Dewy, Fancy Day, and
Unity Sallet, who embody conflicting desires, loyalties, and social expectations.
The examination of romantic entanglements, class dynamics, and the choices
individuals make in matters of the heart have been commended for their
psychological insight and emotional resonance.

 Social Commentary: "Under the Greenwood Tree" contains subtle social

commentary, touching on issues such as class divisions, changing social norms,
and the impact of progress on rural communities. Hardy's portrayal of the
Mellstock Quire as a close-knit community facing the challenges of modernization
reflects wider societal shifts during the Victorian era. Critics have analyzed the
novel as a reflection of Hardy's concern for the diminishing influence of rural
communities and the loss of their cultural heritage.
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 Stylistic Merits: Hardy's lyrical prose, rich descriptions, and evocative language
have been lauded by critics. His ability to capture the beauty of nature, convey
characters' emotions, and create vivid imagery has contributed to the enduring
appeal of the novel. The novel's narrative structure, pacing, and use of humor and
irony have also been examined and praised for their effectiveness in engaging
readers.

Overall, "Under the Greenwood Tree" has received critical acclaim for its masterful
portrayal of rural life, its exploration of themes such as tradition and modernity, and its
insightful depiction of complex characters and relationships. Hardy's ability to blend
pastoral charm with social commentary and his lyrical writing style continue to make the
novel a significant contribution to English literature.