Examples of romanticism in Jude the obscure?

Answer 1

Jude the Obscure is rife with examples of Romanticism. Here are a few:

Hardy's disillusionment with Victorian society is a controlling theme throughout the novel, exposed by Jude's two failed marriages and his rejection from society after these marriages. Hardy's latent homosexuality shows up frequently in the novel, and is portrayed as unacceptable by society (which it was) but not necessarily wrong.

The educational institutions are lampooned for rejecting the clearly bright Jude (who learned Latin on his own) simply because he has little money. Only one of the five colleges to which Jude writes a letter describing his situation responds, only to tell Jude that he would "have a much better chance of success in life by remaining in [his] own sphere and sticking to [his] trade rather than by adopting any other course."

Hardy condemns the marital system of his era through Jude's disastrous marriage to Arabella as contrasted to Jude's relative happiness with Sue even when they are not married. His problems with Sue originate from his desire to marry her, as well as from his child that came as the unfortunate fruit of Jude's marriage to Arabella.

The naturalistic elements of Romanticism dominate the major themes of the book: most notably, the idea that man is not in control of his own destiny. No matter how hard Jude tries to achieve his goals in life, his dreams are shattered time and time again. This exemplifies the naturalist tenet that man's environment always supersedes man.

Answer 2

In "Jude the Obscure," romanticism is highlighted through the characters' struggles with their dreams and desires, as well as their pursuit of love and passion. Jude's desire to pursue a life of academia and his unfulfilled romantic relationships with Sue and Arabella embody themes of idealism and emotional intensity that are characteristic of romantic literature. Additionally, the novel explores the limitations of societal norms and conventions, challenging traditional ideas of love and relationships.