John Durbeyfield
Tess's father, a shiftless haggler who discovers his noble lineage.
Core Belief
"John believes that his noble lineage entitles him to respect and privilege, despite his present circumstances. He is more concerned with appearances than with hard work or responsibility."
Worldview
John sees the world through a lens of entitlement and self-pity. He believes that he deserves better than he has, and he blames his misfortunes on external forces rather than his own failings.
Personality
John is portrayed as a weak, lazy, and somewhat delusional man, prone to drinking and self-importance. He is easily swayed by flattery and obsessed with his newfound noble ancestry, but lacks the drive or competence to improve his family's circumstances.
In Their Own Words
"“Sir John d’Urberville—that’s who I am,” continued the prostrate man. “That is if knights were baronets—which they be. ’Tis recorded in history all about me. Dost know of such a place, lad, as Kingsbere-sub-Greenhill?”"
"“No,” said he stoically, “I won’t sell his old body. When we d’Urbervilles was knights in the land, we didn’t sell our chargers for cat’s meat. Let ’em keep their shillings! He’ve served me well in his lifetime, and I won’t part from him now.”"
"“Don’t you be so sure o’ that. From your nater ’tis my belief you’ve disgraced yourselves more than any o’ us, and was kings and queens outright at one time.”"
Other Characters from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman
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