Thomas Hardy- Heredity

Subject

The force called 'Heredity' speaks about its role, power and function.

Themes

The individual is the prisoner of inherited features. This can be linked to Tess of the d'Urbevilles. The group or species continues at the expense of the individual.

 This poem can easily be linked to 'Hap' (another poem written by Thomas Hardy) and shows the pessimistic attitude of the poet.

Context

The social context of the poem is Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution.

Tone/Mood

• Sardonic (mocking, scornful)
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