The Well-Beloved: A Sketch of a Temperament

"The Well-Beloved: A Sketch of a Temperament" by Thomas Hardy is a 19th-century novel centered on Jocelyn Pierston, a sculptor captivated by a vision of ideal beauty he calls the "Well-Beloved," leading him through a whirlwind of love, art, and intricate relationships on a captivating island. As the story begins, Jocelyn journeys back to the Isle of Slingers after a long time away, reminiscing about the past and his old friends. He meets Avice Caro, a young woman who shares a complex bond with him. Their childhood connection is challenged as Avice matures, leaving Jocelyn confused about his true feelings. This sets the stage for a narrative filled with deep emotional exploration and philosophical questions about love and longing.