Abstract: In Hardy’ s novel, Tess is a character who is pure, beautiful, intelligent, and kind-hearted. During her lifetime, she goes through many sufferings, and scholars at home and abroad have made a great deal of research on the causes to her tragedy. Although Tess’s fate is doomed to be tragic due to her poor family, unfortunate love experience and the social backgrounds, her happiness is undeniable, no matter how tiny or short it is. This paper aims at discovering her happiness in her love story, her family and her independence. Meanwhile, the effect of Tess’ personality on her happiness is analyzed.

Key words: Tess, tragedy, happiness, personality

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction.1

1.1 A Brief Introduction to Tess of the d’Urbervilles

1.2 Literary Review on Tess’ Tragic Fate 

2. The Happiness of Tess.2

2.1 Happiness in Love.2

2.2 Happiness in Family3

2.2.1 A Complete Family

2.2.2 Sense of Responsibility and Self-sacrifice to Family

2.3 Happiness in Her Independence5

3. The Effect of Tess’ Personality on Her Happiness6

3.1 The Spirit of Rebellion6

3.2 The Spirit of Optimism7

4. Conclusion.7

Bibliography.8

Acknowledgment9