Date of Award
2009
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Submission Date
October 2026
Abstract
In my thesis I will argue that the source of the major conflict in Jude the Obscure - the traumatic relationship between Sue and Jude - is Jude's viewing of his cousin's photograph early in the novel. Because of his tendency to idealize the individuals around him, Jude projects a desired image onto a photograph of Sue before meeting her in real life. This projection takes on an aspect of reality for Jude which he can not escape, despite Sue's efforts to disillusion him and introduce him to her actual self. Since his projection starkly contrasts to Sue's actual being, not only does Jude believe that the two are compatible when they are not, but he believes that Sue's attempts to disillusion him are in fact deceitful. Thus the initial impetus of the photograph eventually leads to their conflicted relationship and the tragedy of the novel overall.
Recommended Citation
Taylor, Margaret, "living presence" and the "ideal character"" (2009). Harriet L Wilkes Honors College Theses 2003 - 2009. 126.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_honors_1/126
Extent
v, 46, [1] leaves ; 29 cm.
Identifier
459790077
Comments
by Margaret Taylor.