Introduction and Notes by Jane Thomas, University of Hull.
Powerful symbolism marks this romantic fantasy that Hardy has grounded firmly in real.
Jocelyn Pierston, celebrated sculptor, tries to create an image of his ideal woman - his imaginary Well-beloved - in stone, just as he tries to find her in the flesh.
The Well-beloved completes the cycle of Hardy\'s great novels, reiterating his favourite themes of man\'s eternal quest for perfection in both love and art, and the suffering that ensues.
Introduction and Notes by Jane Thomas, University of Hull