Two on a Tower
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4.4 • 20 Ratings
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Publisher Description
The novel tells about the unhappily married Lady Constantine breaks all the rules of social decorum when she falls in love with Swithin St. Cleeve, an astronomer who is ten years her junior. Her husband's death leaves the lovers free to marry, but the discovery of a legacy forces them apart. This is most complete treatment of the theme of love across the class and age divide and the fullest expression of his fascination with science and astronomy.
Customer Reviews
Two on a Tower
Quintessential Hardy, the twists and turns of men’s and women’s lives set mainly in countryside Essex. Alternately joyous and cruel, a keen eye for the pace of life, written in the author’s great prose style.
Tragedy on a Tower
Another classic by Thomas Hardy! The love story unfolds rather slowly at first, before long the reader is drawn in. Initially, I was a little disgusted, the older, already married Viviette falling in love with the young, innocent boy. As the story develops, it is hard not to sympathize with the widow. She cares so much for the young man with all his great scientific ambitions.
Once you have read a few Hardy novels, you realize the course of love rarely runs smoothly. However, Hardy continues to surprise. The plot twists were interesting and it is hard to guess how things will end.
The other really wonderful thing about Thomas Hardy are his insights and observations into human nature. He seems to understand human weakness and strength. Most modern novelists can weave a story successfully, but leave you with nothing more. Hardy's books always delve a little deeper.