Hardy, Thomas

Wessex Novels [Complete in 18 Volumes]

London: Osgood, McIlvane, & Co., 1895. First Edition. Octavo hardcover in original publishers cloth. Good. Item #1488

Complete eighteen-volume first book edition collection. Thomas Hardy's Wessex novels form a captivating literary collection that vividly explores the rural landscape and societal intricacies of 19th-century England. Spanning the late Victorian period, these novels are set in the fictional region of Wessex, a landscape deeply rooted in Hardy's own experiences. Known for his keen observation of human nature and the complexities of relationships, Hardy weaves compelling tales against the backdrop of the rustic charm of Wessex. The novels, including masterpieces like "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and "Far from the Madding Crowd," delve into themes of love, fate, and the harsh realities of rural life. Hardy's evocative prose and deep understanding of the human condition make the Wessex novels a timeless exploration of the struggles and triumphs of individuals within the intricate tapestry of a bygone era

Each volume contains the book plate of Leslie R. F. Seaton and some pencil notations on the front endpaper indicating when the book was read (1980s). All volumes are foxed, most prominent at preliminaries, and toned throughout. Poor storage resulted in cocked spines on most volumes. Cloth torn in places and some with rudimentary repairs. Bindings are aged and brittle with some hinges starting.

NOVELS OF CHARACTER AND ENVIRONMENT

I. Tess of the D’Urbervilles
II. Far From the Madding Crowd
III. Jude the Obscure
IV. The Return of the Native
V. The Mayor of Casterbridge
VI. The Woodlanders
VII. Under the Greenwood Tree
VIII. Life’s Little Ironies
IX. Wessex Tales

ROMANCES AND FANTASIES

X. A Pair of Blue Eyes
XI. The Trumpet-Major
XII. Two on a Tower
XIII. The Well-Beloved
XIV. A Group of Noble Dames

NOVELS OF INGENUITY

XV. Desperate Remedies
XVI. The Hand of Ethelberta
XVII. A Laodicean
XVIII. A Changed Man.

Price: $1,750.00