Tess of the d’Urbervilles tells the harrowing story of Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman from a poor family who learns that she may be descended from the once-noble d’Urberville family. Her father, eager to capitalize on this discovery, sends Tess to claim kinship with the wealthy d’Urbervilles. This leads her to the attention of Alec d’Urberville, a manipulative and predatory man who takes advantage of Tess’s innocence. His actions set Tess on a tragic path of suffering and social condemnation.

After returning home in disgrace and giving birth to Alec’s child—who soon dies—Tess attempts to rebuild her life by working as a dairymaid. There, she falls in love with Angel Clare, an idealistic man who admires her beauty and purity. However, when Tess confesses her past to Angel on their wedding night, he is unable to forgive her, despite his own prior indiscretions. Heartbroken and abandoned, Tess struggles to survive as she faces increasing hardships and societal judgment.

With no other options, Tess eventually reunites with Alec, who offers her financial security in exchange for becoming his companion. When Angel returns, finally realizing the cruelty of his judgment, Tess, in a moment of despair, murders Alec and flees with Angel. Their happiness is short-lived, as Tess is soon arrested and executed for the crime.

Hardy’s novel is a scathing critique of Victorian morality, portraying Tess not as a sinner but as a victim of societal hypocrisy and the inexorable forces of fate. Through its tragic narrative and richly drawn characters, Tess of the d’Urbervilles remains a timeless and devastating exploration of the human condition.