Jude the obscure

The novel follows Jude Fawley, a poor orphan who aspires to study at the university in Christminster.

However, his dreams are thwarted by societal constraints and personal tragedies.

Jude's life is marked by his ill-fated marriages, first to Arabella Donn and later a complicated relationship with his cousin Sue Bridehead.

The novel explores themes of class, education, religion, morality, and the oppressive nature of marriage in Victorian society.

The story culminates in a tragic event involving Jude's children, leading to a downward spiral of unhappiness and ultimately, Jude's death.