Within reading, “The Ruined Maid” by Thomas Hardy the word “ruined” appears to resemble a much different connotation than usual. Upon observing the Oxford English Dictionary the word “ruined” gathers a variety of meanings. For example, one perception of ruin is, “the physical destruction or disintegration of something or the state of disintegrating or being destroyed”(Oxford English Dictionary). This very definition can relate to the physical state of nearly anything. Essentially ruined could refer to such things as a building all the way to the economy. Yet, typically this word is used to define the natural state of a man made being. However, within the reading Thomas Hardy puts a spin on things.
Ancient Ruin Vs. Ruined Woman
Ruin Synonyms:
- wreck
- destruction
- ruination
- perdition
- downfall
- spoil
- demolish
- ravage
- devastate
Consequently, when reading “The Ruined Maid”, the word “ruin” contains a whole new denotation. O’melia, the main character within the reading, is left explaining to an acquaintance the fruits of her labor. However, rather than referring to herself as a prostitute she reveals herself as ruined. At the end of each paragraph O’melia basically explains what happens with being a prostitute (ruined). For instance she states, “yes: that’s how we dress when we’re ruined”(Hardy). Therefore, when O’melia refers to the word “ruined” she is essentially discussing what happens with the loss of ones virginity. The word “ruin” within this text depicts the fallen woman. Which in this case is somewhat of a tragedy. True, O’melia may appear to be well off her feet nevertheless, this is what has forever stapled her. This has ruined her life, with the fact that she can never go back. Sure, the lavish and frilly adornments do not hurt; yet, the loss of her virginity forever haunts her. Which deteriorates her inner self. She must live on with the fact that she is a prostitute. The word, “ruin” immediately becomes symbolic of her loss of virginity. Not to mention, brings upon a negative connotation. She herself even admits, “My dear—a raw country girl, such as you be, Cannot quite expect that. You ain’t ruined”(Hardy). In conclusion, the word “ruin” fits within many instances but takes on a whole new meaning within this text.
Definition of “ruin” in text:
- Loss of virginity
- Deflowered
- Spoiled
- Unworthy
- Fallen woman
- Impure
- Black listed
- Scared
- Labeled
Works Cited
Google images.
Hardy, Thomas. “The Victorian Web: An Overview.” The Victorian Web: An Overview. N.p., 24 Jan. 2006. Web. 15 Oct. 2012. <http://victorianweb.org/>.
“Oxford Dictionaries Online.” Oxford Dictionaries Online. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2012. <http://oxforddictionaries.com/?region=us>.
