Tragedy takes the shape of many events, and influences them in a number of ways. People also contribute to tragedy consciously, as well as subconsciously, unaware of the consequences that will subsequently follow. In the novel Tess of the d"Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, tragedy is undoubtedly present in the protagonist, Tess Durbeyfield"s life. Although Tess is portrayed as an innocent girl who makes wrongful decisions which lead to her destruction, Tess" parents, Angel Clare, and Alec d"Urberville play an important part in her life, leading to her tragedy. The Durbeyfield parents started the cycle of tragedy in Tess life by...
to be happier than making Tess" life miserable by the minute.

Tess" parents, Angel Clare, and Alec d"Urberville play an important part in Tess" tragedy. Her parents fail to educate their grown daughter on the consequences of life and their greed for fame starts the cycle of her affliction. Angel leaves Tess after marrying her, leaving her disgraceful, with nowhere to go and no one to solace in. Alec"s seduction and overpowering attitude leaves Tess pregnant with a sick baby. Tragedy is undoubtedly present in one"s life, but the outside influence one has, determines which path this catastrophe takes.