Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy

 

Question:1: What is the significance of epigraph written by Hardy - 'Letter Killeth' - for this novel, Jude the Obscure?

Answer: 

The Significance of the Epigraph “The Letter Killeth” in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure:

Thomas Hardy’s novel Jude the Obscure opens with the epigraph “The Letter Killeth,” a phrase that holds deep significance for the themes and characters of the novel. This phrase is derived from the Bible, specifically 2 Corinthians 3:6, which states, “The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” In this context, “the letter” refers to the literal interpretation of the law, while “the spirit” refers to the deeper, more meaningful understanding of it. Hardy uses this epigraph to highlight the conflict between rigid societal norms and the individual’s inner desires and spirit.

Literal vs. Spiritual Understanding

The epigraph suggests a tension between the literal and the spiritual, a theme that runs throughout the novel. Jude Fawley, the protagonist, is a self-taught scholar who dreams of attending the prestigious university in Christminster. However, his aspirations are continually thwarted by the rigid social structures and moral codes of Victorian society. The “letter” of societal expectations and laws “killeth” Jude’s dreams and spirit, as he is unable to conform to these rigid norms.

Jude’s Struggles with Society

Jude’s life is a series of struggles against the constraints imposed by society. His relationships, particularly with his cousin Sue Bridehead, are marked by a desire to live freely and authentically, yet they are constantly judged and condemned by the societal “letter.” Jude and Sue’s unconventional relationship, which defies the traditional institution of marriage, is a direct challenge to the societal norms of their time. The epigraph underscores how these rigid norms “kill” their happiness and potential for a fulfilling life.

Education and Knowledge

The epigraph also reflects Jude’s pursuit of education and knowledge. Jude’s self-education is driven by a passion for learning, but the formal educational institutions he aspires to join are inaccessible to him due to his social class. The “letter” of the educational system, with its strict entry requirements and elitist attitudes, excludes Jude, thereby “killing” his intellectual aspirations. This highlights the novel’s critique of the educational system and its failure to recognize and nurture genuine talent and passion.

Sue Bridehead’s Perspective

Sue Bridehead, another central character, embodies the conflict between the letter and the spirit in her own way. She is intellectually and spiritually inclined, often questioning and challenging societal norms. However, she too is ultimately constrained by these norms, leading to her tragic fate. Sue’s struggles illustrate how the “letter” of societal expectations can stifle individual freedom and spiritual growth.

Conclusion

In Jude the Obscure, the epigraph “The Letter Killeth” serves as a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of rigid societal norms and the importance of understanding and embracing the spirit of human desires and aspirations. Hardy uses this biblical reference to critique the inflexible structures of society that hinder personal growth and happiness. Through the tragic lives of Jude and Sue, Hardy illustrates the profound impact of these constraints and calls for a more compassionate and understanding approach to human relationships and aspirations.

Question:2: ) Is it possible to connect the meaning of the epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of the novel and the myth of Bhasmasur?

Answer:

Connecting the Epigraph of ‘Esdras’ and the Myth of Bhasmasur in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure :

Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure opens with an epigraph from the book of Esdras, which is part of the Apocrypha. This epigraph reads, “The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.” This phrase, along with the myth of Bhasmasur from Hindu mythology, can be connected to deepen our understanding of the novel’s themes and characters.

The Epigraph from Esdras

The epigraph from Esdras emphasizes the transient nature of life and the futility of human endeavors. It suggests that literal interpretations and rigid adherence to societal norms can be destructive, while a more spiritual and flexible approach can lead to a more fulfilling life. This idea is central to Jude the Obscure, where the protagonist, Jude Fawley, struggles against the oppressive structures of society that stifle his dreams and aspirations.

The Myth of Bhasmasur

The myth of Bhasmasur tells the story of a demon who, after performing severe penance, is granted a boon by Lord Shiva. This boon allows him to turn anything he touches with his right hand into ashes. However, Bhasmasur’s misuse of this power leads to his own destruction when he is tricked into touching his own head, turning himself into ashes.

Connecting the Epigraph and the Myth

Both the epigraph and the myth highlight the dangers of misusing power and the consequences of rigid adherence to destructive desires. In Jude the Obscure, Jude’s pursuit of education and social mobility is constantly thwarted by the rigid social structures and moral codes of Victorian society. These societal “letters” or laws “kill” his dreams, much like Bhasmasur’s boon ultimately leads to his own demise.

Jude’s Struggles and Bhasmasur’s Fate

Jude’s struggles can be seen as a parallel to Bhasmasur’s fate. Jude’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and acceptance into the academic world of Christminster is akin to Bhasmasur’s penance for power. However, just as Bhasmasur’s boon becomes his curse, Jude’s aspirations become a source of suffering. The rigid societal norms and the literal interpretation of laws and expectations “kill” Jude’s spirit, much like Bhasmasur’s literal touch turns everything to ashes.

Sue Bridehead and the Spirit of Life

Sue Bridehead, Jude’s cousin and love interest, embodies the “spirit” that the epigraph refers to. She challenges societal norms and seeks a more spiritual and intellectual connection with Jude. However, even she is ultimately constrained by the societal “letters,” leading to her tragic fate. Sue’s character highlights the novel’s critique of societal rigidity and the need for a more compassionate and understanding approach to human relationships.

Conclusion

The connection between the epigraph from Esdras and the myth of Bhasmasur in Jude the Obscure underscores the novel’s central themes of the destructive nature of rigid societal norms and the importance of spiritual and intellectual freedom. Hardy uses these references to critique the inflexible structures of society that hinder personal growth and happiness. Through the tragic lives of Jude and Sue, Hardy illustrates the profound impact of these constraints and calls for a more compassionate and understanding approach to human aspirations and relationships.