Tess of the d'Urbervilles presents the struggles of a strikingly attractive and young woman, Tess, who lives with her family in the village of Marlott. When the link to the ancient and noble d'Urberville family is discovered, Tess's family sees it as an opportunity to move up the social ladder. They sacrifice Tess by sending her to establish a relationship with the modern d'Urbervilles. Unfortunately, she has not been well prepared for the cruelties of the world, and her inexperience leaves her vulnerable to the evil intentions of other people.