Thomas Hardy is often regarded as a transitional writer. Some critics believe that emotionally traditional and intellectually advanced. How do you understand this idea?

Thomas Hardy is often regarded as a transitional writer. Some critics believe that emotionally traditional and intellectually advanced. How do you understand this idea?

In his wessex novels, there is an apparent nostalgic touch in his description of the simple and beautiful though primitive rural life, which was gradually declining disappearing as England marched into industrial country. And with those traditional characters he is always sympathetic.