Figurative Potential of Metaphorical Epithet as a Reflection of Artistic Space in the Victorian Novel

The study examines the metaphorical epithet in a fragment from the Victorian novel by Thomas Hardy, “Tess of the D’Urbervilles”. The paper analyzes the concept of a metaphorical epithet in the light of the paradigmatic approach. It is seen as part of a metaphor that characterizes defined objects or phenomena in an allegoric sense, i.e., an epithet based on a figurative meaning (metaphor). The authors employ general methods of observation, explication, and inductive reasoning along with theoretical tools and approaches used in the analysis of fiction. The aim of the paper is to examine the role of metaphorical epithets in creating an image of space, reflecting the drama of the protagonist’s life, and to demonstrate the significance of the linguistic approach in studying the tragical in the writer’s worldview. It has been found that the representation of space in Thomas Hardy’s work acquires symbolic significance. It sheds light on the multidimensionality of the plot and the complexity of the heroine’s character. The study demonstrates a shift from using metaphorical epithets with gloomy tones to life optimism epithets. This feature illustrates the author’s stance on the evolution in the spiritual growth of the heroine, enabling her to embrace the vicissitudes of fate. Skillfully employing epithets to describe the changing colors, light, relief pictures, and sounds, the author portrays the nature phenomena. These are visible to the eye at the moment of contemplation, serving as a source of energy and strength for the heroine’s philosophical acceptance of her inevitable end. The linguistic approach to studying the tragedy of a strong woman who was mistreated in the philistine world contributes to better understanding the author’s critical attitude toward the failure of the Victorian moral norms concerning human beings in general, marriage, and gender relations. The unity of man and nature in Thomas Hardy’s worldview conveys the purity of thoughts and potential actions of the heroine, a fallen yet virtuous woman, and her willingness to love and self-sacrifice. The linguistic interpretation of metaphorical epithets in the extract contributes to the creation of space as a means of expressing the character’s life drama. This allows us to draw conclusions about a deep social and philosophical content of Thomas Hardy’s prose.