Although Hardy is primarily a storyteller, this novel raises questions about society, religion, morals, and the contrast between a good life and its rewards. It pits cosmic forces against main character Tess in her struggle for a life worth living. Although Hardy is primarily a storyteller, this novel raises questions about society, religion, morals, and the contrast between a good life and its rewards. It pits cosmic forces against main character Tess in her struggle for a life worth living. This concise supplement to Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles helps students understand the overal structure of the novel, actions and motivations of the characters, and the social and cultural perspectives of the author.