This well-preserved softcover edition is in near fine condition, with no marks, only minimal shelf wear. The pages are tight, unmarked, and the book is tight, square, and in good condition. Jude the Obscure is a novel by Thomas Hardy, first published in 1895. It follows the life of Jude Fawley, a working-class stonemason with aspirations to become a scholar. Hardy, one of the most prominent figures in English literature, created a work that is often analyzed for its profound exploration of societal issues, class struggles, and individual aspiration. The Signet Classics edition of Jude the Obscure has been a popular choice, featuring an afterword by Alfred Alvarez, a British poet, novelist, and critic known for his influential role in modern literature. In this afterword, Alvarez offers insightful critical perspectives on Thomas Hardy's work, reflecting his deep literary engagement.