Essays on Jude the Obscure

Jude Fawley is an orphan who is determined to get an education, against the wishes of his uncle, who wants him to work in the stonemasonry trade. Jude eventually leaves his uncle's home and goes to work in a stone quarry. He also begins attending night classes at a local college.Jude falls in love with Arabella Donn, a wild and carefree girl. Arabella is soon to be married off to another man, however, and Jude is left heartbroken. Jude's studies begin to suffer and he eventually drops out of college.Jude meets and falls in love with Sue Bridehead, a young woman who is also determined to get an education. The two begin a passionate affair, much to the disapproval of Sue's family.Sue eventually leaves Jude, however, and marries another man. Jude is once again left heartbroken. He turns to alcohol to ease his pain and his health begins to suffer.Jude's health continues to decline and he eventually dies, alone and penniless.