In 19th century England, Jude, a stonemason, seeks a university education to escape poverty. He moves to Christminster, where he falls in love with his cousin Sue, a beautiful and intelligent woman. After revealing his previous marriage, she marries another man, leaving Jude heartbroken. He returns home, but eventually reunites with Sue, who's unhappy in her marriage. They begin an illicit romance and eventually live together as an unmarried couple, facing social and financial struggles.

Jude
In 19th century England, Jude's pursuit of a marriage and career as a stonemason leads him away from his university ambitions, resulting in a lonely life after his wife abandons him, until he finds solace in the city with his liberal cousin Sue.