The Difference Between Fate and Coincidence

The Difference between Fate and Coincidence In the novel Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, fate presents its self through the characters of the novel whom seem to be under the influence of a force greater than them. This is evident due to the fact that Hardy was known to believe that an evil force was in control of the universe, and this is presented to the reader with many underlying themes that Hardy displays that help formulate Tess’ coincidental tragedy and Tess’ fate is foreshadowed throughout the novel, ultimately resulting in her pre-determined failure. Fate plays a very dominant role in the Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Tess is labeled
“unlucky” on numerous occasions throughout the novel, but Hardy creates that image of all of the unfortunate events that occur to her were destined to happen. For instance, when she is raped by Alec, Hardy writes “it was meant to be.” Even though, Tess is presented to the audience as a good-hearted person, by her bearing the family’s burden of poverty. Due to the fact that they lost their only means of income, when the family horse died so she accepted full blame for the horse’s death and in order to help her family she took the job that Alec offered her ultimately resulting in her rape. Fate is also revealed throughout the novel by Tess’ fall being foreshadowed by numerous events. Such as, when she tries to tell angel the truth by slipping the note under the door that would explain everything to him about her past, but Angel never gets to read it, which further defines the theme of Tess’ fall. Also, Prince’s death also symbolizes her fall, because it causes Tess to feel primarily responsible for her family’s poverty stricken condition, which results in her accepting the job against her better judgment. In addition, when John Durbeyfield meets with the Parson and the Parson tells Mr. Durbeyfield that he is the “lineal representative of the ancient and knightly family of the d’Urbervilles.” This sets the entire