Tess of the d'Urbervilles

**Quiz Question: *Tess of the d'Urbervilles* by Thomas Hardy** What does Tess learn about her family's ancestry at the beginning of the novel that sets the plot in motion? A) That her family is descended from a long line of wealthy merchants B) That her family is descended from the ancient noble family of the d'Urbervilles C) That her father is secretly a member of the local gentry D) That her mother was once engaged to Alec d'Urberville **Correct Answer: B** *Explanation: The parson tells Tess's father, John Durbeyfield, that the Durbeyfield family descends from the ancient and once-noble d'Urberville family. This revelation prompts John and his wife to send Tess to "claim kin" with the affluent Stoke-d'Urbervilles, which ultimately triggers the tragic events of the novel.*

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**Quiz Question — *Tess of the d'Urbervilles* by Thomas Hardy** What event most directly leads to Tess Durbeyfield's family sending her to claim kin with the d'Urbervilles at Trantridge? A) Tess's mother finds out Tess is in love with Angel Clare. B) Tess inadvertently causes the death of the family horse, Prince, which takes away their main source of income. C) Tess gets expelled from the village school due to misconduct. D) John Durbeyfield loses his job as a haggler, plunging the family into immediate poverty. **Correct Answer: B** *Explanation:* After Tess falls asleep during the overnight cart ride and the family horse Prince is tragically injured by an oncoming mail-cart, Tess is overwhelmed with guilt for the loss of the Durbeyfields' livelihood. This guilt, along with her parents' urging, drives her to visit Alec d'Urberville's estate to "claim kin" and find work, which sets off the tragic events of the novel.

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**Quiz Question — *Tess of the d'Urbervilles* by Thomas Hardy** What event at the beginning of the novel sets the Durbeyfield family on the path toward their tragic downfall? A) John Durbeyfield loses his job as a peddler. B) A parson informs John Durbeyfield that he is descended from the ancient noble family of the d'Urbervilles. C) Tess is rejected by Angel Clare at the village dance. D) The Durbeyfield horse, Prince, is sold to pay off debts. **Correct Answer: B** *Explanation: The story kicks off when Parson Tringham reveals to John Durbeyfield that he descends from the noble d'Urberville lineage. This revelation drives the family to pursue connections with the (falsely named) d'Urbervilles, leading Tess to encounter Alec d'Urberville and setting the stage for the ensuing tragedy.*

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