Tess’s rejection or alienation of Angel’s proposal of marriage in Thomas Hardy’s (1840-1928) novel “Tess of the d’Urbervilles” can be attributed to several factors. Here is the discussion of the grounds on which Tess rejects or alienates Angel’s proposal.
Guilt and Shame:
Tess carries a deep sense of guilt and shame due to her past experiences, particularly her sexual encounter with Alec d’Urberville. She believes that revealing her past to Angel would lead to his rejection and judgment. This guilt and shame prevent her from accepting Angel’s proposal wholeheartedly. When Angel proposes to her, she initially tries to dissuade him, saying,
“I am not good enough—not worthy enough—oh, such a wicked girl!”
Fear of Losing Angel’s Love:
Tess fears that if she were to disclose her past to Angel, he would no longer love her or accept her as his wife. She cherishes the love and affection Angel has shown her, and she is unwilling to risk losing that by revealing her dark secret.
Social Stigma and Double Standards:
Tess is aware of the double standards and harsh social judgment that exist regarding a woman’s sexual past. She believes that Angel, being from a more respectable and traditional background, would be unable to accept her as a wife if he were to discover the truth. This fear of societal judgment leads her to reject Angel’s proposal. She tells Angel,
“I can’t explain myself; I can only say your idea of justice is too conventional”
Self-sacrifice and Protecting Angel:
Tess deeply loves Angel and wants what is best for him. She believes that by rejecting his proposal and pushing him away, she is protecting him from the shame and scandal that would accompany their marriage. She sees herself as unworthy of Angel’s love and believes that he deserves someone better.
Tess’s Sense of Fate and Destiny:
Throughout the novel, Tess possesses a fatalistic view of her life, feeling that she is destined to suffer and face hardships. She believes that her past actions have predetermined her future, making her unworthy of happiness and marital bliss. This fatalistic outlook influences her decision to reject Angel’s proposal.
It is essential to note that Tess’s rejection of Angel’s proposal is a complex and multifaceted decision influenced by her personal experiences, societal norms, and her own perception of her worth.
