No Subject

I'd agree that Marty is the character we are most sympathetic with in the end, but that does not mean that Grace is less the central character (and subsequently the heroine) as all the other characters link to her story either directly or indirectly. To be a heroine does not require any special attributes, especially when faced with the situations that Hardy has placed Grace in. (and when Hardy himself is so pessimistic)

most people would think that Grace is actually the heroine. However, she is not made of the things REAL heroines are made of. Grace's love for Giles doesent match up with his love for her. After Giles' death, Grace even settles for half by patching things up with Fitzpiers..but MARTY, her love for Giles sustains beyond the grave. Marty is one who is uncomplaining, and is not afraid of hard work, splitting the spar-gads. Her love for Giles is silent but genuine.