• Sundke Aatif Altaf
• Dr. Ram Naresh Singh Tomar

Abstract: This paper examines the pervasive pessimism in Thomas Hardy’s novels Tess of the d’Urbervilles, Jude the Obscure, Two on a Tower, and The Mayor of Casterbridge. Hardy presents a grim vision of human existence, where characters are caught in the web of fate, chance, societal expectations, and internal conflicts. Drawing on philosophical pessimism, determinism, and fatalism, Hardy critiques Victorian ideals of progress, moral justice, and religion, illustrating a universe indifferent to human suffering. Central themes include the role of fate and chance, societal conflict, and the tragic nature of his protagonists. Through narrative techniques such as omniscient narration and symbolism, Hardy underscores the inevitability of tragedy in his characters' lives. The paper argues that Hardy’s works reflect not only his personal worldview but also his broader critique of social institutions, revealing a world where suffering is an inescapable and defining aspect of human life.

Pessimism, determinism, fatalism, fate, chance, social critique, tragedy, Hardy, Victorian literature.

"Pessimism and Fate: Critiquing Victorian Ideals in Thomas Hardy’s Four Major Novels", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 4, page no.n755-n757, April 2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2504D92.pdf

"Pessimism and Fate: Critiquing Victorian Ideals in Thomas Hardy’s Four Major Novels", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 4, page no. ppn755-n757, April 2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2504D92.pdf