Key Quotes from Tess of the d'Urberville

Question 1

Motherhood

Answer 1

“the maternal passion in Tess had been hoodwinked by her imagination” - This quote highlights how Tess’s vision of motherhood was idealised and romanticised, leading her to make choices that ultimately resulted in her suffering.

Question 2

Motherhood

Answer 2

“Tess had never before known a member of the other sec behave quite so carelessly” - This quote reflects Tess’s inexperience and naivety in dealing with men, which is compounded by her sense of responsibility as a mother.

Question 3

Motherhood

Answer 3

“her face had latterly changed with changing states of mind, continually oscillating between two opposites, sensuousness and chastity” - This quote illustrates how Tess’s role as a mother has influenced her self-perception and behaviour, as she struggles to reconcile her sexual desires with her sense of morality.

Question 4

Motherhood

Answer 4

“the figure approaching was, indeed, no other than Mrs Durbeyfield, who, however, had left her maternal cares behind her” - This quote contrasts Tess’s experience of motherhood with that of her own mother, who is depicted as neglectful and indifferent to her children’s welfare.

Question 5

Motherhood

Answer 5

“her instinct of motherhood had been so strong that it overpowered every other consideration” - This quote underscores Tess’s fierce devotion to her child, even in the face of social ostracism and personal sacrifice.