Under the Greenwood Tree

This critical edition of Under the Greenwood Tree offers an authoritative text and insightful contextual material, enhancing the reader's understanding of Hardy's work.

The Under the Greenwood Tree (1872) is a pivotal work in Thomas Hardy's literary career, marking the beginning of his celebrated Wessex novels. This critical edition, part of the Cambridge Edition of the Novels and Stories of Thomas Hardy, presents an authoritative text that delves into the novel's rich context. The comprehensive introduction is enhanced by textual and explanatory notes, allowing readers to appreciate the depth of Hardy's second published work.

Originally released anonymously, Under the Greenwood Tree explores themes of rural life and the complexities of love within a pastoral setting. The critical edition not only provides an accurate representation of Hardy's writing but also highlights the numerous revisions he made throughout the process. This meticulous attention to detail offers insights into the novel's evolution and the myriad of errors introduced by printers' compositors.

In addition to the annotated text, the edition includes a variety of appendices and comprehensive notes that examine significant aspects of the novel's composition, production, and marketing. By engaging with these materials, readers gain a fuller understanding of the historical and cultural backdrop against which Under the Greenwood Tree was created, enriching their appreciation of this classic work.