Tess’s assertion that the answers she seeks are not to
be found in books indicates that she wants to learn directly from
life experiences. Tess is ready to experience the world, and, of
course, she has already made some mistakes as a result. Her assertion
demonstrates that she wants to become knowledgeable and self-sufficient.
In other words, she does not want to rely on anyone else. This independence
contrasts with the way Tess’s mother used to consult the fortune-telling
book for all her guidance. In the same way that Angel seeks to become
independent from his family’s current legacy, Tess wants to become
independent of hers.
These chapters fully introduce Angel into the novel.
A great deal of narrative and an entire chapter are devoted to summarizing
his recent accomplishments and family background. Given that Angel is
introduced immediately after the saga between Tess and the ruthless
Alec d’Urberville, the contrasts between these two men emerge vividly
in these chapters. For instance, Angel has soothing, elegant conversations
with Tess and gives her classical, idealistic nicknames like “Artemis”
and “Demeter.” Alec, on the other hand, mocks her with demeaning
words and low-society nicknames like “coz.” Through this juxtaposition,
Angel appears an angel and a savior to the troubled but coping Tess.
