First published in 1977, this concise and insightful study of the life and works of Thomas Hardy provides a thorough examination of Hardy's literary output. Alongside a brief biography of Hardy's life, Professor Page's study also spotlights his major and minor novels, his short stories, his non-fiction prose and his verse. 'In this concise study, Page has given Hardy's readers an admirable and sensible point of reference to all the works. In his own brief account of Hardy's life and career he is direct and matter of fact. The reader of this book will find he has a reliable guide and a provocative guide.' - Tribune 'The great virtue of this book is that it is written in a transparently clear and always readable style. As a handbook to Hardy it will be of great value to the student who wishes to be a given a map not only of the major novels but, but the lesser known ones as well, and of the poetry, The Dynasts, and the miscellaneous prose writings ... if the chief qualifications of a guide are initimate knowledge of the country and soundness of judgement, all who want leading through Wessex will find Professor Page a reliable and responsible guide. ' - British Book News 'This is one of the best post-war Hardy books' - Notes and Queries 'Page's Thomas Hardy is an uncommonly good and lively introduction to its subject.' - Year's Work in English Studies