Hardy vividly portrays the stark class divide of Victorian England. Tess, born into poverty, is acutely aware of her lowly status, which limits her opportunities and exposes her to exploitation. This theme is highlighted in her interactions with the wealthy and entitled Alec d'Urberville, who represents the oppressive power of the upper class. Tess's struggle to transcend her social standing forms a central conflict throughout the novel.

Hardy challenges conventional Victorian notions of purity and morality. Tess, despite being a victim of seduction and circumstance, is ostracized and judged by society. Her story critiques the hypocrisy of a society quick to condemn yet blind to the nuances of individual experiences. Through Tess's suffering, Hardy questions the very definition of virtue and sin.

Throughout the novel, nature serves as both a source of solace and a reflection of Tess's emotional state. The changing seasons mirror the highs and lows of her life, while the idyllic landscapes offer moments of respite from the harsh realities she faces. Hardy's evocative descriptions of nature emphasize the powerful forces at play in Tess's life, often foreshadowing impending doom or reflecting her inner turmoil.