The poetry of Thomas Hardy has been examined only twice in the past 20 years – that was in 2006 and 1998. Here are the questions that were asked:

2006
‘What Thomas Hardy’s poetry means to me.’
Write an essay in response to the above title.
Your essay should include a discussion of his themes and the way he expresses them. Support the points you make by reference to the poetry on your course.

1998
‘Hardy’s poetry is striking in its lyrical expression of the joys and misfortunes of life.’
Discuss this statement, supporting your answer by quotation from or reference to the poetry by Hardy on your course.