Thomas Hardy’s Philosophical Influences in his Poetry

Table of Contents

• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Hardy's Humanistic Vision
• Religious Manifestations
• Aesthetic mode of Transcendence
• An Epistemological Perspective

Objectives and Key Themes

This study aims to illuminate lesser-known aspects of Thomas Hardy's poetic vision, moving beyond his renowned status as a novelist. It examines his poetic output through a new lens, exploring the philosophical influences that shaped his work.

• Hardy's Humanistic Vision
• Religious Manifestations in Hardy's Poetry
• Aesthetic Mode of Transcendence
• Epistemological Perspective in Hardy's Work
• Philosophical Influences on Hardy's Poetry

Chapter Summaries

• Chapter 1: Introduction

  This chapter introduces Thomas Hardy as a multifaceted literary figure, highlighting his prolific novel writing alongside his significant body of poetic work. It contextualizes Hardy's poetic output within the broader landscape of British poetry, showcasing its influence and reception. The chapter delves into Hardy's personal life and his relationship with poetry, discussing his reasons for choosing novel writing as a source of income and his eventual return to his primary artistic passion.

• Hardy's Humanistic Vision

  This section will explore Hardy's humanist perspective, focusing on his understanding of human nature, society, and the individual's place within the larger framework of existence. It will examine how his humanism is reflected in his poetic themes and characters.

• Religious Manifestations

  This section will delve into the exploration of religious themes in Hardy's poetry. It will analyze his nuanced portrayal of faith, doubt, and the search for meaning in a potentially indifferent universe. It will explore the presence of religious symbols and imagery in his work, revealing their significance within the context of his philosophical outlook.

• Aesthetic mode of Transcendence

  This section will examine Hardy's use of aesthetic principles as a means of achieving a form of transcendence. It will analyze how his poetry engages with concepts of beauty, form, and artistic creation to offer a sense of escape or spiritual elevation. The section will explore the relationship between Hardy's artistic vision and his broader philosophical outlook.

• An Epistemological Perspective

  This section will explore Hardy's philosophical perspective on knowledge and the process of knowing. It will examine how his poetry engages with questions of truth, perception, and the limitations of human understanding. The section will analyze Hardy's use of language, symbolism, and literary techniques to convey his epistemological insights.

Keywords

The key terms and concepts explored in this study include Thomas Hardy, poetry, humanism, religion, aesthetics, transcendence, epistemology, philosophy, literary influences, romanticism, existentialism, and the relationship between art and life.