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<rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" version="2.0"><channel><title>Jude the Obscure (Version 2)</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jude-the-obscure-version-2--6885336</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><atom:link href="https://www.spreaker.com/show/6885336/episodes/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><language>en</language><category>Books</category><copyright>Copyright Fiction Classics</copyright><image><url>https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg</url><title>Jude the Obscure (Version 2)</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jude-the-obscure-version-2--6885336</link></image><lastBuildDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 09:52:30 +0000</lastBuildDate><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Fiction Classics</itunes:name><itunes:email>spreaker27@adfreesounds.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:category text="Arts"><itunes:category text="Books"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Fiction"/><itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality"/><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><podcast:guid>e4c47b49-c9d9-5f51-9724-8df20d304a8c</podcast:guid><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><item><title>Wounded Soldier in the Convent-François Coppée</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/wounded-soldier-in-the-convent-francois-coppee--74441395</link><description><![CDATA["Wounded Soldier in the Convent" by François Coppée delves into the poignant themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the complexities of human emotions in the face of suffering. The narrative invites listeners to reflect on the profound struggles of a soldier grappling with his wounds, both physical and emotional, as he finds solace within the sacred walls of a convent. This exploration of vulnerability and the search for peace resonates deeply in today's world, where the impacts of conflict and the quest for healing remain ever-relevant.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74441395</guid><pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 09:05:23 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74441395/wounded_soldier_in_the_convent_franc_ois_coppe_e.mp3" length="14745509" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Wounded Soldier in the Convent" by François Coppée delves into the poignant themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the complexities of human emotions in the face of suffering. The narrative invites listeners to reflect on the profound struggles of a...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Wounded Soldier in the Convent" by François Coppée delves into the poignant themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the complexities of human emotions in the face of suffering. The narrative invites listeners to reflect on the profound struggles of a soldier grappling with his wounds, both physical and emotional, as he finds solace within the sacred walls of a convent. This exploration of vulnerability and the search for peace resonates deeply in today's world, where the impacts of conflict and the quest for healing remain ever-relevant.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1841</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Prelude-William Wordsworth</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/prelude-william-wordsworth--74390731</link><description><![CDATA["Prelude" by William Wordsworth is a profound exploration of the poet's own development and the nature of human experience. This seminal work delves into themes of nature, memory, and the evolution of the self, making it a timeless reflection on the journey of life and creativity. Wordsworth's insights into the human condition resonate deeply today, as they encourage listeners to reconnect with their inner selves and the world around them. The lyrical beauty and philosophical depth of "Prelude" invite contemplation, offering a rich auditory experience that continues to inspire and provoke thought in contemporary audiences. Embrace the enduring power of Wordsworth's words and discover the transformative potential of poetry.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74390731</guid><pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 09:05:08 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74390731/prelude_william_wordsworth.mp3" length="228543030" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Prelude" by William Wordsworth is a profound exploration of the poet's own development and the nature of human experience. This seminal work delves into themes of nature, memory, and the evolution of the self, making it a timeless reflection on the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Prelude" by William Wordsworth is a profound exploration of the poet's own development and the nature of human experience. This seminal work delves into themes of nature, memory, and the evolution of the self, making it a timeless reflection on the journey of life and creativity. Wordsworth's insights into the human condition resonate deeply today, as they encourage listeners to reconnect with their inner selves and the world around them. The lyrical beauty and philosophical depth of "Prelude" invite contemplation, offering a rich auditory experience that continues to inspire and provoke thought in contemporary audiences. Embrace the enduring power of Wordsworth's words and discover the transformative potential of poetry.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>28539</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Winter-Mary Ann H. T. Bigelow</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/winter-mary-ann-h-t-bigelow--74314816</link><description><![CDATA["Winter" by Mary Ann H. T. Bigelow invites listeners into a poignant exploration of the season's transformative power and its reflection on the human experience. Through evocative imagery and thoughtful prose, Bigelow captures the essence of winter as a time of introspection, resilience, and renewal. This timeless narrative resonates today, reminding us of the beauty found in stillness and the strength we draw from facing life's challenges. With themes of hope and endurance woven throughout, "Winter" offers a compelling reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of embracing each season, making it a must-listen for those seeking comfort and inspiration in the colder months.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74314816</guid><pubDate>Sat, 22 Aug 2026 09:04:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74314816/winter_mary_ann_h_t_bigelow.mp3" length="19429644" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Winter" by Mary Ann H. T. Bigelow invites listeners into a poignant exploration of the season's transformative power and its reflection on the human experience. Through evocative imagery and thoughtful prose, Bigelow captures the essence of winter as...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Winter" by Mary Ann H. T. Bigelow invites listeners into a poignant exploration of the season's transformative power and its reflection on the human experience. Through evocative imagery and thoughtful prose, Bigelow captures the essence of winter as a time of introspection, resilience, and renewal. This timeless narrative resonates today, reminding us of the beauty found in stillness and the strength we draw from facing life's challenges. With themes of hope and endurance woven throughout, "Winter" offers a compelling reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of embracing each season, making it a must-listen for those seeking comfort and inspiration in the colder months.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2426</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 1-Richard Hooker</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/of-the-laws-of-ecclesiastical-polity-book-1-richard-hooker--74214762</link><description><![CDATA["Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 1" by Richard Hooker delves into the relationship between church and state, exploring the principles that govern ecclesiastical authority and the nature of religious governance. This foundational work of Anglican theology emphasizes the importance of reason and tradition in understanding faith, making it a significant text for anyone interested in the interplay of religion and society. Hooker's arguments about the necessity of a structured approach to ecclesiastical matters resonate today as we navigate complex discussions about authority and belief systems.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74214762</guid><pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 09:06:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74214762/of_the_laws_of_ecclesiastical_polity_book_1_richard_hooker.mp3" length="84742579" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 1" by Richard Hooker delves into the relationship between church and state, exploring the principles that govern ecclesiastical authority and the nature of religious governance. This foundational work of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 1" by Richard Hooker delves into the relationship between church and state, exploring the principles that govern ecclesiastical authority and the nature of religious governance. This foundational work of Anglican theology emphasizes the importance of reason and tradition in understanding faith, making it a significant text for anyone interested in the interplay of religion and society. Hooker's arguments about the necessity of a structured approach to ecclesiastical matters resonate today as we navigate complex discussions about authority and belief systems.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>10582</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Workhouse Characters-Margaret Nevinson</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/workhouse-characters-margaret-nevinson--74153987</link><description><![CDATA["Workhouse Characters" by Margaret Nevinson offers a poignant exploration of the lives of those who inhabit the workhouse system, shedding light on their struggles and resilience. This compelling narrative captures the harsh realities faced by the marginalized, making it a timeless reflection on social justice and human dignity. The themes of poverty, survival, and the quest for identity resonate deeply in today's society, where issues of inequality and compassion remain ever-relevant. Nevinson's vivid portrayal of her characters invites listeners to engage with their stories, reminding us of the enduring human spirit and the importance of empathy in understanding the plight of others.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74153987</guid><pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 09:06:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74153987/workhouse_characters_margaret_nevinson.mp3" length="119548442" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Workhouse Characters" by Margaret Nevinson offers a poignant exploration of the lives of those who inhabit the workhouse system, shedding light on their struggles and resilience. This compelling narrative captures the harsh realities faced by the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Workhouse Characters" by Margaret Nevinson offers a poignant exploration of the lives of those who inhabit the workhouse system, shedding light on their struggles and resilience. This compelling narrative captures the harsh realities faced by the marginalized, making it a timeless reflection on social justice and human dignity. The themes of poverty, survival, and the quest for identity resonate deeply in today's society, where issues of inequality and compassion remain ever-relevant. Nevinson's vivid portrayal of her characters invites listeners to engage with their stories, reminding us of the enduring human spirit and the importance of empathy in understanding the plight of others.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>14929</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>St. George and St. Michael, Volume 1-George MacDonald</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/st-george-and-st-michael-volume-1-george-macdonald--74105002</link><description><![CDATA["St. George and St. Michael, Volume 1" by George MacDonald is a captivating exploration of the interplay between faith, duty, and the human spirit. Through its rich narrative, the book delves into timeless themes of moral struggle and the quest for personal integrity. MacDonald's storytelling resonates today as it encourages readers to confront their own challenges with courage and conviction. The enduring nature of its message lies in its ability to inspire self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one's values. This volume invites listeners to embark on a journey of discovery, making it a meaningful addition to any literary collection.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74105002</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:06:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74105002/st_george_and_st_michael_volume_1_george_macdonald.mp3" length="150252784" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"St. George and St. Michael, Volume 1" by George MacDonald is a captivating exploration of the interplay between faith, duty, and the human spirit. Through its rich narrative, the book delves into timeless themes of moral struggle and the quest for...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["St. George and St. Michael, Volume 1" by George MacDonald is a captivating exploration of the interplay between faith, duty, and the human spirit. Through its rich narrative, the book delves into timeless themes of moral struggle and the quest for personal integrity. MacDonald's storytelling resonates today as it encourages readers to confront their own challenges with courage and conviction. The enduring nature of its message lies in its ability to inspire self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one's values. This volume invites listeners to embark on a journey of discovery, making it a meaningful addition to any literary collection.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>18763</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 2-Richard Hooker</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/of-the-laws-of-ecclesiastical-polity-book-2-richard-hooker--74057277</link><description><![CDATA["Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 2" by Richard Hooker delves into the intricate relationship between church governance and civil authority, presenting a compelling argument for the role of reason and tradition in ecclesiastical matters. Hooker's exploration of the balance between divine law and human interpretation remains relevant today, as society continues to grapple with the complexities of faith and governance. His insights into the necessity of a structured polity within the church offer timeless wisdom for contemporary discussions on religious authority and moral reasoning.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74057277</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:06:46 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74057277/of_the_laws_of_ecclesiastical_polity_book_2_richard_hooker.mp3" length="45609667" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 2" by Richard Hooker delves into the intricate relationship between church governance and civil authority, presenting a compelling argument for the role of reason and tradition in ecclesiastical matters....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity, Book 2" by Richard Hooker delves into the intricate relationship between church governance and civil authority, presenting a compelling argument for the role of reason and tradition in ecclesiastical matters. Hooker's exploration of the balance between divine law and human interpretation remains relevant today, as society continues to grapple with the complexities of faith and governance. His insights into the necessity of a structured polity within the church offer timeless wisdom for contemporary discussions on religious authority and moral reasoning.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>5695</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Warden-Anthony Trollope</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/warden-anthony-trollope--74007664</link><description><![CDATA["Warden" by Anthony Trollope delves into the moral complexities of a clergyman's life as he navigates the challenges of duty, compassion, and community expectations. This timeless tale explores themes of integrity and the impact of personal choices on the lives of others, resonating with contemporary audiences who grapple with similar ethical dilemmas. Trollope's keen observations on social dynamics and human behavior make this work enduringly relevant, inviting listeners to reflect on their values and responsibilities within their own communities. The narrative's rich character development and moral inquiry provide a thought-provoking experience that remains significant today.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74007664</guid><pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:06:54 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/74007664/warden_anthony_trollope.mp3" length="222166543" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Warden" by Anthony Trollope delves into the moral complexities of a clergyman's life as he navigates the challenges of duty, compassion, and community expectations. This timeless tale explores themes of integrity and the impact of personal choices on...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Warden" by Anthony Trollope delves into the moral complexities of a clergyman's life as he navigates the challenges of duty, compassion, and community expectations. This timeless tale explores themes of integrity and the impact of personal choices on the lives of others, resonating with contemporary audiences who grapple with similar ethical dilemmas. Trollope's keen observations on social dynamics and human behavior make this work enduringly relevant, inviting listeners to reflect on their values and responsibilities within their own communities. The narrative's rich character development and moral inquiry provide a thought-provoking experience that remains significant today.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>27743</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Timaeus-Plato (Πλάτων)</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/timaeus-plato-platon--73955817</link><description><![CDATA[Timaeus by Plato is a foundational text in Western philosophy that explores the nature of the physical world and the cosmos through dialogue. In this work, Plato delves into the relationship between the material and the ideal, offering insights into the creation of the universe and the principles governing it. The themes of existence, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth resonate profoundly today, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own understanding of reality and the universe. Engaging with Timaeus invites a timeless exploration of philosophical thought, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in the roots of philosophical inquiry and the enduring questions of existence.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73955817</guid><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 09:06:54 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73955817/timaeus_plato.mp3" length="226356596" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Timaeus by Plato is a foundational text in Western philosophy that explores the nature of the physical world and the cosmos through dialogue. In this work, Plato delves into the relationship between the material and the ideal, offering insights into...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Timaeus by Plato is a foundational text in Western philosophy that explores the nature of the physical world and the cosmos through dialogue. In this work, Plato delves into the relationship between the material and the ideal, offering insights into the creation of the universe and the principles governing it. The themes of existence, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth resonate profoundly today, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own understanding of reality and the universe. Engaging with Timaeus invites a timeless exploration of philosophical thought, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in the roots of philosophical inquiry and the enduring questions of existence.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>28266</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>H.M.S. Pinafore; Or, The Lass That Loved A Sailor-W. S. Gilbert</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/h-m-s-pinafore-or-the-lass-that-loved-a-sailor-w-s-gilbert--73901323</link><description><![CDATA[H.M.S. Pinafore; Or, The Lass That Loved A Sailor by W. S. Gilbert is a delightful comic opera that explores themes of love, class, and social hierarchy aboard a British warship. The story humorously captures the romantic entanglements between sailors and their sweethearts, highlighting the absurdities of societal expectations and the pursuit of happiness. Its witty dialogue and memorable melodies make it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring struggles between love and duty. The charm and satire inherent in Gilbert's work ensure that it remains a beloved classic, inviting listeners to reflect on the nature of love and the constraints imposed by society.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73901323</guid><pubDate>Sat, 15 Aug 2026 09:08:26 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73901323/h_m_s_pinafore_or_the_lass_that_loved_a_sailor_w_s_gilbert.mp3" length="30216817" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>H.M.S. Pinafore; Or, The Lass That Loved A Sailor by W. S. Gilbert is a delightful comic opera that explores themes of love, class, and social hierarchy aboard a British warship. The story humorously captures the romantic entanglements between sailors...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[H.M.S. Pinafore; Or, The Lass That Loved A Sailor by W. S. Gilbert is a delightful comic opera that explores themes of love, class, and social hierarchy aboard a British warship. The story humorously captures the romantic entanglements between sailors and their sweethearts, highlighting the absurdities of societal expectations and the pursuit of happiness. Its witty dialogue and memorable melodies make it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the enduring struggles between love and duty. The charm and satire inherent in Gilbert's work ensure that it remains a beloved classic, inviting listeners to reflect on the nature of love and the constraints imposed by society.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3773</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>St. George and St. Michael, Volume 2-George MacDonald</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/st-george-and-st-michael-volume-2-george-macdonald--73806394</link><description><![CDATA["St. George and St. Michael, Volume 2" by George MacDonald continues the exploration of themes of faith, courage, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. This volume delves deeper into the moral complexities faced by its characters, reflecting the timeless battle of ideals that resonates with audiences today. MacDonald's rich prose and philosophical insights invite listeners to ponder their own beliefs and the nature of heroism. The narrative's enduring qualities make it a profound experience, encouraging a reflection on the virtues that shape our lives and the world around us. Engaging with this classic work offers both inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human condition.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73806394</guid><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 09:03:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73806394/st_george_and_st_michael_volume_2_george_macdonald.mp3" length="171539302" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"St. George and St. Michael, Volume 2" by George MacDonald continues the exploration of themes of faith, courage, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. This volume delves deeper into the moral complexities faced by its characters, reflecting...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["St. George and St. Michael, Volume 2" by George MacDonald continues the exploration of themes of faith, courage, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. This volume delves deeper into the moral complexities faced by its characters, reflecting the timeless battle of ideals that resonates with audiences today. MacDonald's rich prose and philosophical insights invite listeners to ponder their own beliefs and the nature of heroism. The narrative's enduring qualities make it a profound experience, encouraging a reflection on the virtues that shape our lives and the world around us. Engaging with this classic work offers both inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human condition.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>21421</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Liliecrona's Home-Selma Lagerlöf</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/liliecrona-s-home-selma-lagerlof--73769465</link><description><![CDATA[Liliecrona's Home by Selma Lagerlöf is a poignant exploration of the themes of home, belonging, and the ties that bind us to our roots. This timeless narrative invites listeners to reflect on the significance of family and the emotional landscapes that shape our identities. As Lagerlöf weaves her tale, she captures the essence of human connection, making it a resonant choice for today's audience navigating their own complex relationships and quests for meaning. The enduring nature of her storytelling reminds us that, despite the passage of time, the search for a place we can truly call home remains a universal journey. Immerse yourself in this evocative tale that speaks to the heart of what it means to belong.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73769465</guid><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:03:39 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73769465/liliecrona_s_home_selma_lagerlo_f.mp3" length="224951905" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Liliecrona's Home by Selma Lagerlöf is a poignant exploration of the themes of home, belonging, and the ties that bind us to our roots. This timeless narrative invites listeners to reflect on the significance of family and the emotional landscapes...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Liliecrona's Home by Selma Lagerlöf is a poignant exploration of the themes of home, belonging, and the ties that bind us to our roots. This timeless narrative invites listeners to reflect on the significance of family and the emotional landscapes that shape our identities. As Lagerlöf weaves her tale, she captures the essence of human connection, making it a resonant choice for today's audience navigating their own complex relationships and quests for meaning. The enduring nature of her storytelling reminds us that, despite the passage of time, the search for a place we can truly call home remains a universal journey. Immerse yourself in this evocative tale that speaks to the heart of what it means to belong.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>28091</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Philippics-Marcus Tullius Cicero</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/philippics-marcus-tullius-cicero--73735975</link><description><![CDATA["Philippics" by Marcus Tullius Cicero is a powerful series of speeches that eloquently defend the principles of the Roman Republic against the threats posed by political corruption and tyranny. Cicero's impassioned rhetoric and profound insights into governance and morality resonate deeply, making this work not only a historical artifact but also a timeless commentary on the importance of civic responsibility and the defense of democratic ideals. The themes of justice, integrity, and the struggle against oppression remain relevant today, reminding listeners of the enduring fight for truth and freedom in any society.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73735975</guid><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:03:51 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73735975/philippics_marcus_tullius_cicero.mp3" length="281758316" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Philippics" by Marcus Tullius Cicero is a powerful series of speeches that eloquently defend the principles of the Roman Republic against the threats posed by political corruption and tyranny. Cicero's impassioned rhetoric and profound insights into...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Philippics" by Marcus Tullius Cicero is a powerful series of speeches that eloquently defend the principles of the Roman Republic against the threats posed by political corruption and tyranny. Cicero's impassioned rhetoric and profound insights into governance and morality resonate deeply, making this work not only a historical artifact but also a timeless commentary on the importance of civic responsibility and the defense of democratic ideals. The themes of justice, integrity, and the struggle against oppression remain relevant today, reminding listeners of the enduring fight for truth and freedom in any society.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>35184</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Selected Poems-Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Christina Rossetti</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/selected-poems-dante-gabriel-rossetti-christina-rossetti--73710374</link><description><![CDATA["Selected Poems" features the exquisite works of Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Christina Rossetti, showcasing the profound emotional depth and vivid imagery characteristic of their poetry. This collection invites listeners to explore themes of love, loss, and the interplay between beauty and sorrow, which continue to resonate in today's world. The Rossettis' ability to articulate complex human experiences through rich language and striking symbolism makes their poetry timeless. Engaging with these poems offers a reflective journey into the heart of Victorian sentiment, revealing insights that remain relevant and poignant in contemporary discussions of art and emotion.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73710374</guid><pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2026 09:04:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73710374/selected_poems_dante_gabriel_rossetti_christina_rossetti.mp3" length="52221137" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Selected Poems" features the exquisite works of Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Christina Rossetti, showcasing the profound emotional depth and vivid imagery characteristic of their poetry. This collection invites listeners to explore themes of love,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Selected Poems" features the exquisite works of Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Christina Rossetti, showcasing the profound emotional depth and vivid imagery characteristic of their poetry. This collection invites listeners to explore themes of love, loss, and the interplay between beauty and sorrow, which continue to resonate in today's world. The Rossettis' ability to articulate complex human experiences through rich language and striking symbolism makes their poetry timeless. Engaging with these poems offers a reflective journey into the heart of Victorian sentiment, revealing insights that remain relevant and poignant in contemporary discussions of art and emotion.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>6521</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Apology of Socrates (version 2)-Plato (Πλάτων)</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/apology-of-socrates-version-2-plato-platon--73688156</link><description><![CDATA[The "Apology of Socrates" by Plato presents a powerful defense of Socrates as he stands trial for allegedly corrupting the youth and impiety. This philosophical dialogue captures Socrates' unwavering commitment to truth and virtue, illustrating his belief in the importance of questioning and examining one's life. The themes of integrity, the pursuit of knowledge, and the courage to stand against societal norms remain profoundly relevant today, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own values and beliefs. Engaging with this timeless work invites a deeper understanding of ethical principles and the essence of human existence, making it a significant piece for anyone seeking wisdom in a complex world.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73688156</guid><pubDate>Sun, 09 Aug 2026 09:04:12 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73688156/apology_of_socrates_version_2_plato.mp3" length="36663983" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>The "Apology of Socrates" by Plato presents a powerful defense of Socrates as he stands trial for allegedly corrupting the youth and impiety. This philosophical dialogue captures Socrates' unwavering commitment to truth and virtue, illustrating his...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The "Apology of Socrates" by Plato presents a powerful defense of Socrates as he stands trial for allegedly corrupting the youth and impiety. This philosophical dialogue captures Socrates' unwavering commitment to truth and virtue, illustrating his belief in the importance of questioning and examining one's life. The themes of integrity, the pursuit of knowledge, and the courage to stand against societal norms remain profoundly relevant today, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own values and beliefs. Engaging with this timeless work invites a deeper understanding of ethical principles and the essence of human existence, making it a significant piece for anyone seeking wisdom in a complex world.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4578</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Commentary on Romans-Theodoret of Cyrus</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/commentary-on-romans-theodoret-of-cyrus--73662611</link><description><![CDATA["Commentary on Romans" by Theodoret of Cyrus offers a profound exploration of the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans, delving into its theological depths and practical implications. This timeless work examines the nature of faith, grace, and the Christian life, providing insights that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences seeking to understand their spiritual journey. Theodoret's reflections encourage listeners to engage with the text in a meaningful way, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of faith and the transformative power of scripture. As relevant today as it was in its time, this commentary invites listeners to reflect on their beliefs and the enduring message of hope and redemption found in Romans.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73662611</guid><pubDate>Sat, 08 Aug 2026 11:24:41 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73662611/commentary_on_romans_theodoret_of_cyrus.mp3" length="126290539" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Commentary on Romans" by Theodoret of Cyrus offers a profound exploration of the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans, delving into its theological depths and practical implications. This timeless work examines the nature of faith, grace, and the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Commentary on Romans" by Theodoret of Cyrus offers a profound exploration of the Apostle Paul's epistle to the Romans, delving into its theological depths and practical implications. This timeless work examines the nature of faith, grace, and the Christian life, providing insights that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences seeking to understand their spiritual journey. Theodoret's reflections encourage listeners to engage with the text in a meaningful way, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of faith and the transformative power of scripture. As relevant today as it was in its time, this commentary invites listeners to reflect on their beliefs and the enduring message of hope and redemption found in Romans.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>15770</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Lucian's Dialogues Volume 4 Zeus the Tragedian-Lucian of Samosata</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/lucian-s-dialogues-volume-4-zeus-the-tragedian-lucian-of-samosata--73639337</link><description><![CDATA[Lucian's Dialogues Volume 4, titled "Zeus the Tragedian," presents a fascinating exploration of themes surrounding the nature of divinity and the human condition through the lens of satire and wit. In this work, Lucian of Samosata employs humor and sharp dialogue to critique the gods and the societal norms of his time, offering insights that remain relevant today. The interplay between the divine and the tragic aspects of life prompts listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the absurdities of existence. This enduring dialogue encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities of faith and morality, making it a compelling listen for those interested in philosophy, literature, and the timeless questions that define humanity.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73639337</guid><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 21:56:46 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73639337/14084_lucian_s_dialogues_volume_4_zeus_the_tragedian_lucian_of_samosata.mp3" length="37667817" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Lucian's Dialogues Volume 4, titled "Zeus the Tragedian," presents a fascinating exploration of themes surrounding the nature of divinity and the human condition through the lens of satire and wit. In this work, Lucian of Samosata employs humor and...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Lucian's Dialogues Volume 4, titled "Zeus the Tragedian," presents a fascinating exploration of themes surrounding the nature of divinity and the human condition through the lens of satire and wit. In this work, Lucian of Samosata employs humor and sharp dialogue to critique the gods and the societal norms of his time, offering insights that remain relevant today. The interplay between the divine and the tragic aspects of life prompts listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the absurdities of existence. This enduring dialogue encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities of faith and morality, making it a compelling listen for those interested in philosophy, literature, and the timeless questions that define humanity.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4704</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Brief Account of the Bahai Movement-Ethel J. Rosenberg</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/brief-account-of-the-bahai-movement-ethel-j-rosenberg--73597793</link><description><![CDATA["Brief Account of the Bahai Movement" by Ethel J. Rosenberg offers a concise exploration of the Bahá'í Faith, detailing its origins, principles, and impact on society. This illuminating work sheds light on the movement's emphasis on unity, justice, and the importance of spiritual development, themes that resonate powerfully in today's increasingly divided world. By examining the core messages of the Bahá'í teachings, listeners can gain valuable insights into fostering compassion and understanding in their own lives. Rosenberg's account serves as a timeless reminder of the potential for faith to inspire positive change and promote harmony among diverse communities.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73597793</guid><pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 05:34:11 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73597793/brief_account_of_the_bahai_movement_ethel_j_rosenberg.mp3" length="29668699" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Brief Account of the Bahai Movement" by Ethel J. Rosenberg offers a concise exploration of the Bahá'í Faith, detailing its origins, principles, and impact on society. This illuminating work sheds light on the movement's emphasis on unity, justice,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Brief Account of the Bahai Movement" by Ethel J. Rosenberg offers a concise exploration of the Bahá'í Faith, detailing its origins, principles, and impact on society. This illuminating work sheds light on the movement's emphasis on unity, justice, and the importance of spiritual development, themes that resonate powerfully in today's increasingly divided world. By examining the core messages of the Bahá'í teachings, listeners can gain valuable insights into fostering compassion and understanding in their own lives. Rosenberg's account serves as a timeless reminder of the potential for faith to inspire positive change and promote harmony among diverse communities.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3705</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Jane Austen's Sailor Brothers-John Hubback, Edith Hubback Brown</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/jane-austen-s-sailor-brothers-john-hubback-edith-hubback-brown--73560315</link><description><![CDATA["Jane Austen's Sailor Brothers" by John Hubback and Edith Hubback Brown delves into the lives of Austen's lesser-known relatives, exploring the maritime adventures and familial bonds that shaped their experiences. This work offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those connected to one of literature's most beloved authors, highlighting themes of loyalty, duty, and the complexities of family relationships. The enduring nature of these themes resonates today, reminding listeners of the timeless struggles and triumphs found within familial ties. As we navigate our own relationships, this audiobook provides a rich tapestry of history and emotion that continues to speak to the heart.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73560315</guid><pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:55:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73560315/jane_austen_s_sailor_brothers_john_hubback_edith_hubback_brown.mp3" length="209918174" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>"Jane Austen's Sailor Brothers" by John Hubback and Edith Hubback Brown delves into the lives of Austen's lesser-known relatives, exploring the maritime adventures and familial bonds that shaped their experiences. This work offers a unique glimpse...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA["Jane Austen's Sailor Brothers" by John Hubback and Edith Hubback Brown delves into the lives of Austen's lesser-known relatives, exploring the maritime adventures and familial bonds that shaped their experiences. This work offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those connected to one of literature's most beloved authors, highlighting themes of loyalty, duty, and the complexities of family relationships. The enduring nature of these themes resonates today, reminding listeners of the timeless struggles and triumphs found within familial ties. As we navigate our own relationships, this audiobook provides a rich tapestry of history and emotion that continues to speak to the heart.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>26213</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Soren Kierkegaard, Various Readings-Various</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/soren-kierkegaard-various-readings-various--73523181</link><description><![CDATA[Soren Kierkegaard's "Various Readings-Various" offers a profound exploration of existential themes that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of faith, individuality, and the human experience. This collection invites listeners to engage with Kierkegaard's insights into the complexities of existence, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and the struggle for authenticity. The enduring relevance of his thoughts on anxiety, despair, and the nature of faith challenges us to reflect on our own lives and beliefs. Kierkegaard's work remains a vital part of philosophical discourse, making it essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the depths of human emotion and thought.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73523181</guid><pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2026 23:54:56 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/73523181/soren_kierkegaard_various_readings_various.mp3" length="128630190" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Soren Kierkegaard's "Various Readings-Various" offers a profound exploration of existential themes that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of faith, individuality, and the human experience. This collection invites listeners to engage...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Soren Kierkegaard's "Various Readings-Various" offers a profound exploration of existential themes that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of faith, individuality, and the human experience. This collection invites listeners to engage with Kierkegaard's insights into the complexities of existence, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and the struggle for authenticity. The enduring relevance of his thoughts on anxiety, despair, and the nature of faith challenges us to reflect on our own lives and beliefs. Kierkegaard's work remains a vital part of philosophical discourse, making it essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the depths of human emotion and thought.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>16062</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>053 - Part 6Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/053-part-6chapter-11--70151415</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151415</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151415/judetheobscure_53_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7496192" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b/4b806310-74ff-45c0-a310-37d3dc99284b.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>937</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>053 - Part 6Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/053-part-6chapter-11--70153849</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153849</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153849/judetheobscure_53_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7496192" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a/09c9976a-7860-4301-9734-8e686519f05a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>937</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>053 - Part 6Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/053-part-6chapter-11--70153153</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153153</guid><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153153/judetheobscure_53_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7496192" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4/b8e8ab3b-1b76-478f-9fb7-47eb26f006c4.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>937</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>052 - Part 6Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/052-part-6chapter-10--70153847</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153847</guid><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153847/judetheobscure_52_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3641344" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a/1b4cf0a7-cd47-4020-b4a5-456f58868f5a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>456</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>052 - Part 6Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/052-part-6chapter-10--70151414</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151414</guid><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151414/judetheobscure_52_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3641344" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006/76799bae-9f79-4342-8e27-a51d76f44006.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>456</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>052 - Part 6Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/052-part-6chapter-10--70153152</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153152</guid><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153152/judetheobscure_52_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3641344" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348/5d878911-cc7a-49fa-868d-631ebc58b348.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>456</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>051 - Part 6Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/051-part-6chapter-9--70151413</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151413</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151413/judetheobscure_51_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7440896" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92/6750c92e-abda-49d5-89c4-77e2f60e6c92.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>930</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>051 - Part 6Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/051-part-6chapter-9--70153846</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153846</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153846/judetheobscure_51_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7440896" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f/5b5734fd-3fdd-4241-90ca-5d8fee65a09f.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>930</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>051 - Part 6Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/051-part-6chapter-9--70153151</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153151</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153151/judetheobscure_51_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7440896" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653/33b1cf44-4c63-4763-a108-9c6c8d776653.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>930</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>050 - Part 6Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/050-part-6chapter-8--70153845</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153845</guid><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153845/judetheobscure_50_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7498752" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c/07ebf93c-53f2-4389-8dd6-6cc4edbbfe7c.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>938</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>050 - Part 6Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/050-part-6chapter-8--70151412</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151412</guid><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151412/judetheobscure_50_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7498752" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121/cbde33a3-ebb3-4bb0-88ab-b50f81d3e121.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>938</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>050 - Part 6Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/050-part-6chapter-8--70153149</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153149</guid><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153149/judetheobscure_50_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7498752" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595/cfe4db81-3058-4aba-ba2d-f78f1f8d4595.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>938</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>049 - Part 6Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/049-part-6chapter-7--70153145</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153145</guid><pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153145/judetheobscure_49_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7517184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a/25b29bf5-7f9e-4faa-a550-290f8f37f44a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>940</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>049 - Part 6Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/049-part-6chapter-7--70153843</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153843</guid><pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153843/judetheobscure_49_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7517184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab/f3efad3a-b852-493c-9652-111769eac8ab.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>940</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>049 - Part 6Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/049-part-6chapter-7--70151411</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151411</guid><pubDate>Sun, 08 Mar 2026 09:00:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151411/judetheobscure_49_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7517184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382/43d326a6-9ecd-47d9-abe9-1e8c66efc382.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>940</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>048 - Part 6Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/048-part-6chapter-6--70153143</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153143</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153143/judetheobscure_48_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7121920" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837/015b32b0-f3f0-4a76-a9e8-97d603d6d837.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>891</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>048 - Part 6Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/048-part-6chapter-6--70151410</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151410</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151410/judetheobscure_48_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7121920" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd/2660d5fc-3c18-4abd-b561-eacb29ca9bbd.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>891</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>048 - Part 6Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/048-part-6chapter-6--70153842</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153842</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153842/judetheobscure_48_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7121920" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64/5e0c810d-39fc-456e-b0eb-4c3b0d5f6a64.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>891</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>047 - Part 6Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/047-part-6chapter-5--70153841</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153841</guid><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153841/judetheobscure_47_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8529408" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce/629263cf-47e1-4b78-b29a-b459a43d66ce.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1066</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>047 - Part 6Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/047-part-6chapter-5--70151409</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151409</guid><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151409/judetheobscure_47_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8529408" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f/d8d431e2-84b7-46d0-87de-f9de74c0734f.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1066</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>047 - Part 6Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/047-part-6chapter-5--70153141</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153141</guid><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 10:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153141/judetheobscure_47_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8529408" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7/07b01af6-3ba9-4095-8d65-2cacd6c881c7.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1066</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>046 - Part 6Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/046-part-6chapter-4--70153840</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153840</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153840/judetheobscure_46_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8096256" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb/25c78c11-6681-4fd8-b597-76788e0cb6bb.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1012</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>046 - Part 6Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/046-part-6chapter-4--70153140</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153140</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153140/judetheobscure_46_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8096256" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732/2c327aea-c225-42d9-9ec2-8437f8e7d732.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1012</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>046 - Part 6Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/046-part-6chapter-4--70151408</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151408</guid><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151408/judetheobscure_46_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8096256" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d/65919da7-a907-4db8-8758-76a8748d614d.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1012</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>045 - Part 6Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/045-part-6chapter-3--70153137</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153137</guid><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153137/judetheobscure_45_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="14082048" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085/621afb51-eb98-4605-9ea3-d8dc71751085.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1761</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>045 - Part 6Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/045-part-6chapter-3--70153839</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153839</guid><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153839/judetheobscure_45_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="14082048" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb/fb3d9ef4-7354-4a31-b335-119371cf80cb.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1761</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>045 - Part 6Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/045-part-6chapter-3--70151407</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151407</guid><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:00:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151407/judetheobscure_45_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="14082048" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a/ed15236e-a40b-49ca-9359-56df2204de2a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1761</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>044 - Part 6Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/044-part-6chapter-2--70153838</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153838</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153838/judetheobscure_44_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10461184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496/f13a9589-cade-4cc4-8e4b-e1566c1ff496.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1308</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>044 - Part 6Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/044-part-6chapter-2--70153134</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153134</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153134/judetheobscure_44_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10461184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059/d6e9c031-f9d8-427c-9602-91ae34892059.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1308</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>044 - Part 6Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/044-part-6chapter-2--70151406</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151406</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151406/judetheobscure_44_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10461184" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d/dfc8ff5b-b8b3-43e9-8d54-522094da6b2d.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1308</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>043 - Part 6Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/043-part-6chapter-1--70153837</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153837</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153837/judetheobscure_43_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10310144" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1/56a2a836-83f4-417a-ad18-f1e0661e87d1.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1289</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>043 - Part 6Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/043-part-6chapter-1--70153132</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153132</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153132/judetheobscure_43_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10310144" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36/9d781385-41c3-4240-9794-021e6a6a7a36.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1289</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>043 - Part 6Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/043-part-6chapter-1--70151405</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151405</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151405/judetheobscure_43_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10310144" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c/3622bff7-c312-4f20-a5f2-ea07b785010c.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1289</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>042 - Part 5Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/042-part-5chapter-8--70153130</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153130</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153130/judetheobscure_42_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6897152" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2/bd7bb329-6086-41c8-b8b0-d63f097cced2.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>862</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>042 - Part 5Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/042-part-5chapter-8--70153836</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153836</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153836/judetheobscure_42_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6897152" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05/764b718b-0651-4860-9bf7-c4d6d5d6de05.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>862</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>042 - Part 5Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/042-part-5chapter-8--70151404</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151404</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 10:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151404/judetheobscure_42_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6897152" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9/fb8774e4-6e3e-404b-b2dd-d75ff1b4bab9.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>862</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>041 - Part 5Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/041-part-5chapter-7--70153835</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153835</guid><pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 10:00:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153835/judetheobscure_41_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5370880" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153/6c9ac317-7254-4f26-b824-7f6283755153.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>672</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>041 - Part 5Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/041-part-5chapter-7--70153129</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153129</guid><pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 10:00:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153129/judetheobscure_41_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5370880" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662/e702eddd-2d74-4ef3-97a8-c5f8d3b2e662.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>672</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>041 - Part 5Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/041-part-5chapter-7--70151403</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151403</guid><pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 10:00:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151403/judetheobscure_41_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5370880" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a/5f321861-11f0-4b85-99c3-a7450fc6233a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>672</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>040 - Part 5Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/040-part-5chapter-6--70153834</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153834</guid><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153834/judetheobscure_40_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="11739648" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3/92011013-9844-41d0-90dc-79d7efa0b4e3.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1468</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>040 - Part 5Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/040-part-5chapter-6--70151402</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151402</guid><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151402/judetheobscure_40_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="11739648" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1468</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>040 - Part 5Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/040-part-5chapter-6--70153127</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153127</guid><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 10:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153127/judetheobscure_40_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="11739648" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6/66a86dff-1749-40bf-871a-75dd92a833a6.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1468</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>039 - Part 5Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/039-part-5chapter-5--70153833</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153833</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:00:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153833/judetheobscure_39_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9832960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>039 - Part 5Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/039-part-5chapter-5--70151400</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151400</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:00:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151400/judetheobscure_39_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9832960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>039 - Part 5Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/039-part-5chapter-5--70153126</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153126</guid><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:00:31 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153126/judetheobscure_39_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9832960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>038 - Part 5Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/038-part-5chapter-4--70153125</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153125</guid><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153125/judetheobscure_38_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9311232" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1164</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>038 - Part 5Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/038-part-5chapter-4--70153832</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153832</guid><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153832/judetheobscure_38_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9311232" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1164</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>038 - Part 5Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/038-part-5chapter-4--70151399</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151399</guid><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151399/judetheobscure_38_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9311232" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1164</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>037 - Part 5Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/037-part-5chapter-3--70153122</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153122</guid><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153122/judetheobscure_37_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9281024" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e/22e01257-23ad-4230-9475-93e62a982c6e.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1160</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>037 - Part 5Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/037-part-5chapter-3--70151398</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151398</guid><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151398/judetheobscure_37_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9281024" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066/6b8eeb4f-7c80-4b12-bcb9-90ea4220b066.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1160</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>037 - Part 5Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/037-part-5chapter-3--70153829</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153829</guid><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153829/judetheobscure_37_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9281024" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a/df06fb6b-4f6e-4937-9c97-c17c209d163a.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1160</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>036 - Part 5Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/036-part-5chapter-2--70153121</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153121</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:00:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153121/judetheobscure_36_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9147904" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c/6ee38089-7f8f-41d9-a1da-58a9e1c2514c.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1144</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>036 - Part 5Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/036-part-5chapter-2--70151397</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151397</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:00:23 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151397/judetheobscure_36_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9147904" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae/296c7195-5fae-461b-86d7-d4f4d1aa2fae.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1144</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>036 - Part 5Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/036-part-5chapter-2--70153828</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153828</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153828/judetheobscure_36_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9147904" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2/d2411039-a312-44c3-a707-1a1e5bf0cdc2.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1144</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>035 - Part 5Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/035-part-5chapter-1--70153827</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153827</guid><pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:22 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153827/judetheobscure_35_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5180416" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74/6d64a3f1-8a9b-4b4f-954b-8ba1adbfeb74.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>648</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>035 - Part 5Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/035-part-5chapter-1--70153118</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153118</guid><pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153118/judetheobscure_35_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5180416" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96/75934819-b2b1-4efd-9b5e-0a9bc274bd96.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>648</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>035 - Part 5Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/035-part-5chapter-1--70151396</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151396</guid><pubDate>Sun, 22 Feb 2026 10:00:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151396/judetheobscure_35_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5180416" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3/11b6fb50-7878-4b6e-b543-48008eac4ec3.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>648</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>034 - Part 4Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/034-part-4chapter-6--70153826</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153826</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153826/judetheobscure_34_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8393728" type="audio/mpeg"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1.srt" type="application/x-subrip" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1.txt" type="text/plain" language="en"/><podcast:transcript url="https://transcription.spreaker.com/starship/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1/0d1cc29a-75d6-4f04-932f-8eb9534ae7f1.vtt" type="text/vtt" language="en"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>034 - Part 4Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/034-part-4chapter-6--70153117</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153117</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153117/judetheobscure_34_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8393728" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>034 - Part 4Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/034-part-4chapter-6--70151395</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151395</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151395/judetheobscure_34_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8393728" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>033 - Part 4Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/033-part-4chapter-5--70151394</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151394</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151394/judetheobscure_33_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9516032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1190</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>033 - Part 4Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/033-part-4chapter-5--70153824</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153824</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153824/judetheobscure_33_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9516032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1190</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>033 - Part 4Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/033-part-4chapter-5--70153116</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153116</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153116/judetheobscure_33_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9516032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1190</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>032 - Part 4Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/032-part-4chapter-4--70153823</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153823</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:41 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153823/judetheobscure_32_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10396672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1300</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>031 - Part 4Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/031-part-4chapter-3--70153822</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153822</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:40 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153822/judetheobscure_31_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10444800" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1306</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>030 - Part 4Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/030-part-4chapter-2--70153820</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153820</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:39 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153820/judetheobscure_30_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8967680" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1121</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>029 - Part 4Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/029-part-4chapter-1--70153819</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153819</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:37 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153819/judetheobscure_29_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8804864" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1101</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>028 - Part 3Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/028-part-3chapter-10--70153818</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153818</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:36 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153818/judetheobscure_28_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4532736" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>567</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>027 - Part 3Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/027-part-3chapter-9--70153817</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153817</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:35 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153817/judetheobscure_27_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9026048" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1129</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>026 - Part 3Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/026-part-3chapter-8--70153816</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153816</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:33 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153816/judetheobscure_26_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8684032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1086</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>025 - Part 3Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/025-part-3chapter-7--70153815</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153815</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:32 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153815/judetheobscure_25_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7166464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>896</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>024 - Part 3Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/024-part-3chapter-6--70153814</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153814</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:31 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153814/judetheobscure_24_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9830912" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>023 - Part 3Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/023-part-3chapter-5--70153813</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153813</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153813/judetheobscure_23_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5086208" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>636</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>022 - Part 3Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/022-part-3chapter-4--70153812</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153812</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:22:28 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153812/judetheobscure_22_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8616960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1077</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>021 - Part 3Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/021-part-3chapter-3--70153731</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153731</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:25 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153731/judetheobscure_21_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6270464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>784</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>020 - Part 3Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/020-part-3chapter-2--70153730</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153730</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153730/judetheobscure_20_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3597312" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>450</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>019 - Part 3Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/019-part-3chapter-1--70153729</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153729</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153729/judetheobscure_19_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8081408" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1011</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>018 - Part 2Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/018-part-2chapter-7--70153728</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153728</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:23 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153728/judetheobscure_18_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7920128" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>990</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>017 - Part 2Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/017-part-2chapter-6--70153727</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153727</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:22 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153727/judetheobscure_17_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9430016" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1179</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>016 - Part 2Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/016-part-2chapter-5--70153726</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153726</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153726/judetheobscure_16_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5584384" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>698</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>015 - Part 2Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/015-part-2chapter-4--70153725</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153725</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:21 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153725/judetheobscure_15_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8394240" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>014 - Part 2Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/014-part-2chapter-3--70153724</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153724</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:20 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153724/judetheobscure_14_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6230528" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>779</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>013 - Part 2Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/013-part-2chapter-2--70153723</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153723</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:19 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153723/judetheobscure_13_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8590336" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1074</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>012 - Part 2Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/012-part-2chapter-1--70153722</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153722</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153722/judetheobscure_12_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7385600" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>924</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>011 - Part 1Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/011-part-1chapter-11--70153721</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153721</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153721/judetheobscure_11_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6748672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>844</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>010 - Part 1Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/010-part-1chapter-10--70153720</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153720</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153720/judetheobscure_10_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5955584" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>745</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>009 - Part 1Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/009-part-1chapter-9--70153719</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153719</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153719/judetheobscure_09_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6170624" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>772</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>008 - Part 1Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/008-part-1chapter-8--70153718</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153718</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153718/judetheobscure_08_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5543936" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>693</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>007 - Part 1Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/007-part-1chapter-7--70153717</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153717</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153717/judetheobscure_07_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8338432" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1043</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>006 - Part 1Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/006-part-1chapter-6--70153715</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153715</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153715/judetheobscure_06_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7159808" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>895</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>005 - Part 1Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/005-part-1chapter-5--70153714</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153714</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:11 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153714/judetheobscure_05_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4914176" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>615</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>004 - Part 1Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/004-part-1chapter-4--70153713</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153713</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:10 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153713/judetheobscure_04_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5485568" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>686</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>003 - Part 1Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/003-part-1chapter-3--70153712</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153712</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:09 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153712/judetheobscure_03_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7706112" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>964</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>002 - Part 1Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/002-part-1chapter-2--70153711</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153711</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:09 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153711/judetheobscure_02_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7403520" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>926</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>001 - Part 1Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/001-part-1chapter-1--70153710</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153710</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:17:08 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153710/judetheobscure_01_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4086784" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>511</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>032 - Part 4Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/032-part-4chapter-4--70153115</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153115</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:46 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153115/judetheobscure_32_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10396672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1300</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>031 - Part 4Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/031-part-4chapter-3--70153114</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153114</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:40 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153114/judetheobscure_31_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10444800" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1306</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>030 - Part 4Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/030-part-4chapter-2--70153113</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153113</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:34 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153113/judetheobscure_30_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8967680" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1121</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>029 - Part 4Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/029-part-4chapter-1--70153109</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153109</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:28 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153109/judetheobscure_29_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8804864" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1101</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>028 - Part 3Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/028-part-3chapter-10--70153107</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153107</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:22 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153107/judetheobscure_28_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4532736" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>567</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>027 - Part 3Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/027-part-3chapter-9--70153106</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153106</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153106/judetheobscure_27_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9026048" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1129</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>026 - Part 3Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/026-part-3chapter-8--70153105</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153105</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:10 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153105/judetheobscure_26_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8684032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1086</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>025 - Part 3Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/025-part-3chapter-7--70153103</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153103</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:55:05 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153103/judetheobscure_25_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7166464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>896</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>024 - Part 3Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/024-part-3chapter-6--70153102</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153102</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153102/judetheobscure_24_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9830912" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>023 - Part 3Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/023-part-3chapter-5--70153101</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153101</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:53 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153101/judetheobscure_23_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5086208" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>636</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>022 - Part 3Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/022-part-3chapter-4--70153100</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153100</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153100/judetheobscure_22_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8616960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1077</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>021 - Part 3Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/021-part-3chapter-3--70153095</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153095</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:40 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153095/judetheobscure_21_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6270464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>784</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>020 - Part 3Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/020-part-3chapter-2--70153093</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153093</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:35 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153093/judetheobscure_20_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3597312" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>450</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>019 - Part 3Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/019-part-3chapter-1--70153089</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153089</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153089/judetheobscure_19_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8081408" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1011</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>018 - Part 2Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/018-part-2chapter-7--70153087</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153087</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:23 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153087/judetheobscure_18_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7920128" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>990</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>017 - Part 2Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/017-part-2chapter-6--70153085</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153085</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153085/judetheobscure_17_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9430016" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1179</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>016 - Part 2Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/016-part-2chapter-5--70153083</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153083</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:10 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153083/judetheobscure_16_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5584384" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>698</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>015 - Part 2Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/015-part-2chapter-4--70153082</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153082</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:54:05 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153082/judetheobscure_15_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8394240" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>014 - Part 2Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/014-part-2chapter-3--70153081</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153081</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153081/judetheobscure_14_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6230528" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>779</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>013 - Part 2Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/013-part-2chapter-2--70153079</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153079</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:53 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153079/judetheobscure_13_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8590336" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1074</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>012 - Part 2Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/012-part-2chapter-1--70153078</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153078</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153078/judetheobscure_12_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7385600" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>924</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>011 - Part 1Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/011-part-1chapter-11--70153075</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153075</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:41 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153075/judetheobscure_11_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6748672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>844</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>010 - Part 1Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/010-part-1chapter-10--70153074</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153074</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:35 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153074/judetheobscure_10_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5955584" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>745</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>009 - Part 1Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/009-part-1chapter-9--70153072</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153072</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:29 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153072/judetheobscure_09_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6170624" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>772</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>008 - Part 1Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/008-part-1chapter-8--70153071</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153071</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:24 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153071/judetheobscure_08_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5543936" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>693</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>007 - Part 1Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/007-part-1chapter-7--70153069</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153069</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153069/judetheobscure_07_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8338432" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1043</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>006 - Part 1Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/006-part-1chapter-6--70153068</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153068</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:12 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153068/judetheobscure_06_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7159808" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>895</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>005 - Part 1Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/005-part-1chapter-5--70153067</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153067</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:06 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153067/judetheobscure_05_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4914176" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>615</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>004 - Part 1Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/004-part-1chapter-4--70153063</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153063</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:53:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153063/judetheobscure_04_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5485568" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>686</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>003 - Part 1Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/003-part-1chapter-3--70153062</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153062</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:52:55 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153062/judetheobscure_03_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7706112" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>964</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>002 - Part 1Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/002-part-1chapter-2--70153060</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153060</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:52:49 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153060/judetheobscure_02_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7403520" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>926</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>001 - Part 1Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/001-part-1chapter-1--70153059</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70153059</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:52:43 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70153059/judetheobscure_01_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4086784" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>511</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>032 - Part 4Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/032-part-4chapter-4--70151393</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151393</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:18 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151393/judetheobscure_32_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10396672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1300</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>031 - Part 4Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/031-part-4chapter-3--70151388</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151388</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:17 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151388/judetheobscure_31_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="10444800" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1306</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>030 - Part 4Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/030-part-4chapter-2--70151387</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151387</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:16 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151387/judetheobscure_30_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8967680" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1121</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>029 - Part 4Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/029-part-4chapter-1--70151386</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151386</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:15 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151386/judetheobscure_29_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8804864" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1101</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>028 - Part 3Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/028-part-3chapter-10--70151385</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151385</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:14 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151385/judetheobscure_28_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4532736" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>567</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>027 - Part 3Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/027-part-3chapter-9--70151384</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151384</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151384/judetheobscure_27_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9026048" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1129</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>026 - Part 3Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/026-part-3chapter-8--70151383</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151383</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:12 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151383/judetheobscure_26_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8684032" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1086</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>025 - Part 3Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/025-part-3chapter-7--70151382</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151382</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:11 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151382/judetheobscure_25_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7166464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>896</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>024 - Part 3Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/024-part-3chapter-6--70151381</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151381</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:10 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151381/judetheobscure_24_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9830912" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1229</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>023 - Part 3Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/023-part-3chapter-5--70151380</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151380</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:09 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151380/judetheobscure_23_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5086208" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>636</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>022 - Part 3Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/022-part-3chapter-4--70151379</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151379</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:08 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151379/judetheobscure_22_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8616960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1077</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>021 - Part 3Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/021-part-3chapter-3--70151378</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151378</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:07 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151378/judetheobscure_21_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6270464" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>784</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>020 - Part 3Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/020-part-3chapter-2--70151377</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151377</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:06 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151377/judetheobscure_20_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="3597312" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>450</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>019 - Part 3Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/019-part-3chapter-1--70151376</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151376</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:04 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151376/judetheobscure_19_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8081408" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1011</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>018 - Part 2Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/018-part-2chapter-7--70151375</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151375</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:03 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151375/judetheobscure_18_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7920128" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>990</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>017 - Part 2Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/017-part-2chapter-6--70151374</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151374</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:01 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151374/judetheobscure_17_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="9430016" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1179</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>016 - Part 2Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/016-part-2chapter-5--70151373</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151373</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151373/judetheobscure_16_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5584384" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>698</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>015 - Part 2Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/015-part-2chapter-4--70151372</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151372</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:59 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151372/judetheobscure_15_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8394240" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1050</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>014 - Part 2Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/014-part-2chapter-3--70151370</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151370</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:58 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151370/judetheobscure_14_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6230528" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>779</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>013 - Part 2Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/013-part-2chapter-2--70151369</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151369</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:57 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151369/judetheobscure_13_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8590336" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1074</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>012 - Part 2Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/012-part-2chapter-1--70151368</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151368</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:56 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151368/judetheobscure_12_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7385600" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>924</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>011 - Part 1Chapter 11</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/011-part-1chapter-11--70151367</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151367</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:55 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151367/judetheobscure_11_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6748672" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>844</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>010 - Part 1Chapter 10</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/010-part-1chapter-10--70151366</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151366</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:54 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151366/judetheobscure_10_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5955584" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>745</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>009 - Part 1Chapter 9</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/009-part-1chapter-9--70151365</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151365</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:53 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151365/judetheobscure_09_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="6170624" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>772</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>008 - Part 1Chapter 8</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/008-part-1chapter-8--70151364</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151364</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:51 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151364/judetheobscure_08_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5543936" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>693</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>007 - Part 1Chapter 7</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/007-part-1chapter-7--70151363</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151363</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:50 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151363/judetheobscure_07_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="8338432" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1043</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>006 - Part 1Chapter 6</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/006-part-1chapter-6--70151362</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151362</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:49 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151362/judetheobscure_06_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7159808" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>895</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>005 - Part 1Chapter 5</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/005-part-1chapter-5--70151361</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151361</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:48 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151361/judetheobscure_05_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4914176" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>615</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>004 - Part 1Chapter 4</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/004-part-1chapter-4--70151360</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151360</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151360/judetheobscure_04_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="5485568" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>686</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>003 - Part 1Chapter 3</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/003-part-1chapter-3--70151359</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151359</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:46 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151359/judetheobscure_03_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7706112" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>964</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>002 - Part 1Chapter 2</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/002-part-1chapter-2--70151358</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151358</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:45 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151358/judetheobscure_02_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="7403520" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>926</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>001 - Part 1Chapter 1</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/001-part-1chapter-1--70151357</link><description><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70151357</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:44 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/api.spreaker.com/download/episode/70151357/judetheobscure_01_hardy_64kb.mp3" length="4086784" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Thomas Hardy</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>511</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambition,class,education,family,love,morality,relationships,religion,society,struggle</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5a54078665f560d46ac207c65379822b.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>
