Return Of The Native Essay -- essays research papers

In Thomas Hardy&8217s poem &8220Her Dilemma, it relates to book one of the novel Return of the Native in the conceit of marriage and distrust of feelings. In both the poem and the novel, the woman&8217s feelings and emotions cause conflict in her marriage. It is interesting that both these literary works has a marriage transpire with one person doubtful, especially during a time when divorce was unconceivable. The question arises, should a lifetime decision be made completely upon the basis of one&8217s personal desires?In &8220Her Dilemma the title gives the reader a clue that a choice must be made amidst equally undesirable alternatives. Hardy uses iambic pentameter as the rhyme scheme to make the poem flow smoothly. The first stanza uses detail to describe an ancient church where the couple is soon to be married. Once this stanza ends Hardy&8217s attitude changes to one of sorrow. &8220For he was soon to die, --he softly said, &8216Tell me you love me&8217&8212Holding stern her hand. It is pathetic that this is the last wish of a dying man. Hardy&8217s use of consonance allows the reader to understand the man&8217s feelings. Next stanza the footstep changes again, to one of pity for the woman who sells her soul &8220to be a moment kind. Regardless of whether the woman decides to marry, the man will die. Eventually, her sympathy for the man overwhelms her consciou...