Mayor Of Casterbridge Narcissistic Characteristics

Mayor Of Casterbridge Narcissistic Characteristics
Renowned author and poet, Thomas Hardy, was born and raised in the English village of Dorset, a
town that's known for it's ability to remained relatively unchanged in both quality of life and
mentalities for hundreds of years. Hardy explores the characters in the town of Casterbridge in his
novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge, which is based on his own hometown of Dorset. Within this town
of Casterbridge, we follow, as Hardy puts it, A Story of a Man of Character. This supposed Man of
Character is Michael Henchard, who challenges the reader's perception of what it means to have
character. It also follows the characters of Elizabeth–Jane, Henchard's daughter, and Donald Farfrae,
his co–worker and later rival. During the course of the book, it ... Show more content on
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This shows that Henchard felt a sense of entitlement to Elizabeth–Jane, a clear quality of a
narcissist. Just like a child who has had a toy taken away from him, he becomes upset that
something he views as his, no longer belongs to him. This is revealed earlier on with his fixation of
having her take his last name, thus marking her as his. Just like a true narcissist this brings out a
narcissistic rage in Henchard. He quickly begins to criticize and rage at her for anything she does
that reminds him of his former life. For example, "her occasional pretty and picturesque use of
dialect words", which reveal her poor upbringing, force Henchard to think of his own past when he
too was poor (99). Though, quite hypocritically, though he is "uncultivated himself" he becomes
"the bitterest critic the fair girl could possibly have had of her own lapses" (100). He is quick to rage
and condemn Elizabeth–Jane for her inability to completely erase the tongue of her past, though
ironically he can't erase his past either. Just like how Elizabeth–Jane's accent occasionally slips into
her speech, similarly, Henchard's past throughout the novel continues to slip into his new life. Needs
more quotes: As the novel progresses, his attempt to control Elizabeth–Jane, and thus his past,
begins to negatively affect the course of his future. After Henchard's first wife, Susan, dies he sets
his sight on marrying Lucetta, as they had previously
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Richard Newson
Richard Newson is a sailor who ends up buying Susan and Elizabeth–Jane from Michael Henchard
at the fair for five guineas. However, Newson does not offer to buy Susan and her daughter until
asking if Susan is willing to go with him. He sympathetically takes Susan and her daughter in in
order to care and protect the two girls from to Henchard's drunkenness and irrational behavior.
While Newson is gone at sea, Susan and their daughter, the second Elizabeth Jane, fear the worst
and believe he has died at sea. This turn of events causes Susan to seek out Henchard after realizing
she was never morally bound to Newson and to give Elizabeth Jane a better life. It is later
discovered that Newson faked his own death in order to save Susan from the ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
Leading up to the auction, Susan is distant towards her husband. Susan is simple–minded, but is
loyal in any situation she is in. She believes that her sale to Newson at the fair was legally and
morally binding which is why she stays with Richard Newson after the auction. After believing that
Newson was lost at sea, Susan and Elizabeth Jane Newson return to Wessex in order to reconnect
with Henchard, only to find out from the furmity woman that Henchard is now the successful mayor
of Casterbridge. When Susan sees the life Henchard has made for himself without her, she wishes
not to disrupt his life but knows Elizabeth Jane needs more that what she can offer her. Susan
eventually regains a marriage with Henchard and due to knowone knowing the truth about her and
Henchards past, the locals in Casterbridge see Susan as a delayed choice in a wife for Henchard.
Susan is said to be pale, simple, and fragile with residents calling her "The Ghost" due to her sickly
appearance. The people of Casterbridge do not respect Susan as a suitable wife for their mayor and
believe Henchard married below him saying things like, "Never seen a man wait so long for so
little." Susan's purpose in the novel is to be Henchard's metaphorical redemption at life. After selling
Susan and his daughter Elizabeth Jane, Henchard tries to make a better life for himself to undue all
the guilt he feels. When he finally reconnects with Susan he tries to give her and Elizabeth Jane
everything they could ever wish for to try to make up for the misery he must have caused them. If
Susan had not agreed to go with Newson the sailor the day at the fair, Hechard would not have
vowed to stop drinking for the next 20 years which ultimately gave him a new perspective and new
start at life. The two agree to not tell Elizabeth the truth about their past because if she knew
Elizabeth Jane would suffer

Redemption and Reconciliation in The Mayor of...
Redemption and Reconciliation in The Mayor of Casterbridge
In Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge, rejection and reconciliation is a consistent theme.
During the Victorian era, Michael Henchard, a common hat trusser, becomes Mayor of the town of
Casterbridge, Wessex. However, his position does not prevent him from making a series of mistakes
that ultimately lead to his downfall. Henchard's daughter, Elizabeth Jane Newson, is affected by her
father's choices and is not spared any disappointing consequences. In the novel, the characters of
Henchard and Elizabeth Jane both experience the pain of rejection in its different forms and discover
reconciliation from that rejection.
Henchard and Elizabeth–Jane similarly endure ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Upon Newson's quiet arrival, Henchard announces that he is leaving Casterbridge which makes
Elizabeth–Jane feel rejected all over again. Noticing the treatment she receives from Henchard
compared to the treatment Lucetta receives "she could not help asking what she had done to be
neglected so, after the professions of solicitude he [Henchard] had made"(250). Elizabeth's question
is a legitimate one. It must be acknowledged that, when contrasting the two characters, Elizabeth
does no wrong to deserve rejection whereas Henchard wrongs his daughter and deserves the
rejection he receives.
Henchard and Elizabeth–Jane feel pain because of rejection by others; however, that pain isn't
lessened when they do the rejecting. In the opening of the novel, Henchard rejects Susan and his
responsibility to the child. However, this rejection is unintentional because he is under the influence
of alcohol. We can see that Henchard regrets his actions when he searches for his wife and daughter.
Later, Henchard regrets his actions when he searches for his wife and daughter. Later, Henchard
rejects Elizabeth–Jane because his parental pride is hurt when he finds out, through a letter from
Susan that he was not meant to read until Elizabeth–Jane's wedding day, that she is

Zola's Inebriation Essay
Inebriation, a sort of internal supernatural experience, is the antithesis of reality, something on
which literary realism is based. Although the real lives of countless people throughout history has
involved the use or overuse of alcohol, it is important to recognize the effect it has of essentially
removing its user from reality. A drunken individual perceives his or her environment in a dreamlike
way; reality exists only in the individual's peripheral. That much of what literary realism we have
read recently has included a theme of alcohol or alcoholism is noteworthy. It is such a disturbing,
real life tragedy or habit, a topic very much made for realism, but it also puts the character user in a
completely unreal state of mind. Through Zola's

Essay on The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy
"The Mayor of Casterbridge"
In The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy, a person's future lies in the hands of his or her past
actions. The intelligent or ignorant decision that they make places an immediate or long–term effect
on the rest of person's life. Michael Henchard, whose interactions with the people of Casterbridge
lead to his demise, is only one of the people who decide their own destiny through their actions. The
decisions that the residents of Casterbridge make affect the rest of their lives. The good and evil
characteristics which society possesses determine their fate.
The good qualities which a human holds leads to their future happiness. Initially, a person who
understands their natural area results in a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Farfrae's superior reasoning skills and wit in his grain business and in his life deliver a most
luxurious future. A person's intellect basically results in an enjoyable life and future. Newson makes
up a plan that if Susan "thinks me dead she'll go back to him, and the child will have a
home" (285), this shows his love for Elizabeth–Jane and in turn guarantee him a good life. Yet
as the positive qualities of humans determine people's destiny, the negative attributes of people
decide their own fate.
As the good brings success, the evil characteristics of mankind insure a life of unhappiness and
suffering. People's natural desire to seek revenge causes their own demise. Jopp's obsession to force
Farfrae out of business was so strong that Jopp "was as unsafe a colleague as Henchard could
have chosen" (179). Henchard's own anger toward Farfrae for stealing Lucetta and initially
causing Henchard to lose his business leads to Henchard challenging Farfrae in a fight to ones death.
Henchard defeats Farfrae, but spares his life. Without doubt, irresponsibility causes painful
situations that people must deal with, Henchard's negligence to keep a close eye on his business
results in the bankruptcy of the business. This unruly and negative behavior by Henchard and Jopp
lead to both Jopp's unemployment and Henchard loss of everything in his life that was important to
him. Undeniably, the deceitfulness of humans' result in serious consequences, Susan's

Human Relationships In The Mayor Of Casterbridge By Thomas...
Human relationships are so heavily complex due to fact that there are hostile and compassionate
aspects to them. Also, these complex relationships make it possible to be physically close to
someone without being emotionally connected to them. This is shown in the excerpt from The
Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy through the characters Mayor Henchard and his daughter
Elizabeth–Jane. The Mayor and his daughter have a critical and unloving relationship resulting from
their previous estrangement and his judgmental personality. This relationship is also one–sided
because Elizabeth constantly tries to adhere to her father's critiques after their reconnection, but he
remains cold and harsh. Their relationship is presented as toxic through the ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
He wants his to improve Elizabeth's unsophisticated tendencies so she can blend into his life as town
royalty (mayor), but again he was not always so sophisticated. After judging her speech, he moves
on to criticizing her handwriting skills. He believed that way proper young ladies wrote was about
their sense of a "refined womanhood," which Elizabeth clearly did not posses. As she wrote to his
dislike, he says, "Never mind– I'll finish it." Thus, this again shows as Elizabeth attempts to please
her father's wishes he grows more distant and cold toward her. At the end of the passage it says, "the
more interesting that her appearance and manners became....the more she seemed so estranged to
him." This proves that the chance of Elizabeth making her father proud is almost impossible because
he remains closed–minded toward her. The final use of the word "estranged" to describe how her
actions impacted their relationship shows that even though they live in the same house they are
strangers on an emotional level. The detailed encounters between Mayor Henchard and Elizabeth
shows just how cold–hearted and unloving their alleged father–daughter relationship is because he
never tried to accept Elizabeth for who she was before they

An Essay on Modernism vs. Traditionalism in the Mayor of...
An Essay on Modernism vs. Traditionalism in The Mayor of Casterbridge
During the first half of the 19th century English society was making the difficult transition from a
pre–industrial Britain to ‘modern' Victorian times. In agriculture, most of the transition took place
around 1846 with the repeal of the corn laws. This allowed foreign grain to be imported into
England for the first time. Consequently, the entire structure and methods of agriculture in Britain
were greatly altered. Much of the action in Thomas Hardy's novel The Mayor of Casterbridge takes
place during the years surrounding 1846. These were the years in which traditionalists took their last
stand before being defeated in the name of progress. The contrasts between ... Show more content
‘He asked me, and he questioned me, and then 'a wouldn't hear my points!' said Abel, to the yard in
general. ‘Now, I shall twitch like a moment–hand all night long to–night for fear o' him!' (p. 94–
95). A traditional form of respect for their employers found Henchard's employees fearing him as
illustrated though Abel Whittle's reaction to Henchard's reprimand. Farfrae however, took a more
modern approach by instilling respect in Whittle out of justice. Abel was in the wrong to sleep in.
However, Henchard was in the wrong to force the man to go to work without his breeches. I don't
care what Mr. Henchard said, nor anybody else! ‘Tis simple foolishness to do this. Go and dress
yourself instantly, Whittle [said Farfrae] Farfrae resolved the issue efficiently and with justice which
is illustrative of his modern attitude toward an employee reprimand. The contrasting views on
business ethics held by Henchard and Farfrae are illustrative of the contrasts between tradition and
modernization.
Similarly, the contrasting attitudes that Henchard and Farfrae take toward modernization and new
developments help to illustrate the conflict of tradition versus modernism in Casterbridge society. As
a result of technological progress, a new machine had been developed and introduced to the town of
Casterbridge. It was the new–fashioned agricultural implement called a horse drill, till then
unknown in its modern shape in this

The Mayor of Casterbridge
1. Discuss the ways in which Hardy has raised awareness of social issues in the readers of The
Mayor of Casterbridge.
The Mayor of Casterbridge written by Thomas Hardy in 1884/85 reflects upon the Progression of
Modernism during the first half of the 19th century English society that was progressing in a
difficult transition from a pre–industrial Britain to "modern" Victorian times. Much of the action and
plot in Hardy's novel The Mayor of Casterbridge takes place during the years surrounding 1846.
These were the years in which traditionalists took their last stand before being defeated in the name
of progress. Hardy undoubtedly and repeatedly illustrates in his novel the problems of everyday life
and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He even punishes an employee for his tardiness.
"I don't want to hear it!' roared Henchard. 'Tomorrow the wagons must start at four, and if you are
not there, stand clear. I will mortify thy flesh for thee!' 'But let me clear up my points, your
worshipful–' Henchard turned away. 'He asked me, and he questioned me, and then 'a wouldn't hear
my points!' said Abel, to the yard in general. 'Now, I shall twitch like a moment–hand all night long
to–night for fear o' him"!
Farfrae however, takes a more contemporary approach by instilling respect in the employee by
justice.
"I don't care what Mr. Henchard said, nor anybody else! 'Tis simple foolishness to do this. Go and
dress yourself instantly, Whittle."
Farfrae resolved the issue efficiently and with justice, which is illustrative of his modern attitude
toward an employee reprimand. The contrasting views on business ethics held by Henchard and
Farfrae are illustrative of the contrasts between tradition and modernization.
Another obvious social issue that runs through the books is the question of superiority and
dominance. Henchard starting of as a simple yet ambitious man climbs the hierarchal pyramid of
society into a potion as the Mayor of Casterbridge. But when his time has come to step down from
the seat of power and dominance he is unwilling to come to terms with it and step down from the
position and let Farfrae take over.

Mayor Of Casterbridge Character Development Essay
Personal growth is an essential element of human development and progress. However, even though
there are countless opportunities for the characters in Thomas Hardy 's novel, The Mayor of
Casterbridge, to embrace and experience this necessary growth, there is an absence of such personal
advancement and progress. Ultimately, the decisions and actions of Michael Henchard, Lucetta Le
Sueur, Donald Farfrae, and Elizabeth Jane all demonstrate repetitive qualities and a lack of character
development which either assist or hinder the justice and moral order of the characters' fates.
Throughout Hardy's plot driven novel, the true personalities of the characters shine forth based upon
their responses to the obstacles that they face or the repercussions of their actions. Some of the
characters such as Elizabeth Jane and Donald Farfrae stay true to their own morals and beliefs as a
way to demonstrate their altruism. However, other characters such as Lucetta and Henchard stay
consistent in their own lies in the hope of personal embetterment that only leads to destruction. Even
though Henchard attempts to repent and move past his previous faults by refraining from alcohol for
twenty–one years after selling his wife Susan and child Elizabeth Jane, remarrying Susan after she
returns to Casterbridge, and pursuing Lucetta after Susan dies to cover up their scandal together,
Henchard lacks the dignity to move past the lies and the scandals of his past life. Therefore, when
faced with an

Of Justice In William Shakespearer, Hamlet, And Thomas...
William Shakespeare's King Lear, Hamlet, and Thomas Hardy's Mayor of Casterbridge each
examine both the search for and the effects of justice. King Lear is a case study of a failed monarch
and his remorse for not having been a better king. Hamlet tasks a teenage boy with avenging his
father's death, prompting questions about morality and righteousness. The Mayor of Casterbridge is
a man's attempts to reconcile his shortcomings with what he feels is right. Tragically, in each of
these works the search for justice, or the character's flawed understanding of it, is ultimately
unsuccessful, resulting in injustice towards others. King Lear is defined by the figurehead monarch's
quest for what he sees as justice for himself. After Goneril and Regan betray him by refusing to
house his nights, King Lear calls upon the heavens avenge him and punish his daughters with a
storm. "O heavens," he implores, "If you do love old men, if your sweet sway Show obedience, if
you yourselves are old, Make it your cause. Send down, and take my part" (2.4.217–220). These
lines, uttered in the raw emotion of a man who feels wronged by those he loves, are representative
of Lear's temper and distress when things don't go his way. His daughters' perceived insult to him
spurs a helpless call for justice from the gods, a justice Lear no longer can carry out because he has
divested himself of power. Lear's inability to forcefully delve justice This hearkens back to his
overhasty reaction towards Cordelia

Essay on Modernism vs. Traditionalism in The Mayor of...
An Essay on Modernism vs. Traditionalism in The Mayor of Casterbridge
During the first half of the 19th century English society was making the difficult transition from a
pre–industrial Britain to 'modern' Victorian times. In agriculture, most of the transition took place
around 1846 with the repeal of the corn laws. This allowed foreign grain to be imported into
England for the first time. Consequently, the entire structure and methods of agriculture in Britain
were greatly altered. Much of the action in Thomas Hardy's novel The Mayor of Casterbridge takes
place during the years surrounding 1846. These were the years in which traditionalists took their last
stand before being defeated in the name of progress. The contrasts between ... Show more content
Henchard himself was mentally and physically unfit for grabbing subtleties from solid paper; he had
in a modern sense received the education of Achilles, and found penmanship a tantalizing art. (p.72,
The Mayor of Casterbridge)
The conflicts between modern and traditional approaches to business are demonstrated through the
contrasting business ethics of Henchard and Farfrae. Henchard, being an older man, is not as skilled
at penmanship or mathematics and as a result his bookkeeping skills represent an older and more
traditional method of maintaining business accounts. Farfrae, being from a younger generation
approaches business in a more modern way. He keeps the financial records as accurate and as up to
date as possible, making sure to go through old records and correct any mistakes that Henchard had
made previously. Henchard's methods of business represent skills that are no longer in continual use.
Farfrae is an example of how the advance of technology causes the loss of traditional, and valuable
skills.
In the same way, the conflict between traditional and modern approaches to business is
demonstrated through Henchard and Farfrae's contrasting perspectives on how to manage
employees. Henchard, the traditionalist, takes a stern approach when reprimanding employees,
instilling respect into his employees through fear. Henchard punishes an employee for his tardiness.
'I don't want to hear it!' roared Henchard. 'Tomorrow the

The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy Essay
The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy
Thomas Hardy wrote the novel 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' in 1886. Two of the main characters,
Donald Farfrae and Michael Henchard have a contrast in luck and Hardy uses characterisation,
language, historical and social background and a craft in the structure of his novel to help bring
across this point. During this essay I am going to comment upon how Hardy does this and further
consider the view that, Farfrae's good fortune is a result of Henchard's ill luck.
Throughout the novel there are many examples of Farfrae's good fortune resulting in Henchard's ill
luck. One of the most important examples in the book is when Henchard and Farfrae both gamble on
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Both of these types of characterisation link in with Farfrae's good fortune and Henchard's ill luck.
Hardy creates Henchard not as an evil man but more of tragic hero. This is a person with a fatal
flaw. Henchard's main flaw is his temper. This first adds to his ill luck right at the start of the novel
when he sells Susan and his daughter in a drunken angry state. Even though this does not directly
link in with Farfrae's good fortune (as he is not present in the start of the novel) it does later on in
the novel when the furmity seller arrives back and tells the court of Henchard's secret. When
Henchard admits to what is being said by the old women all respect is lost for him and he looses his
role of town mayor. When Farfrae finally becomes mayor near the end of the novel (after the mayor
after Henchard dies) his good fortune is a result of Henchard's ill luck which is the result of his fatal
flaw. Hardy also uses fate against Henchard throughout the whole novel. An example of this is when
Henchard and Farfrae both hold a dance for the townspeople. Farfrae has his in a barn whereas
Henchard's is out in the open. When it rains on the night of the dance everyone turns out to Farfrae's
even Susan and Elizabeth–Jane. This leads to Farfrae's popularity rising and Henchard's to carry on
decreasing (as the dance was a hope to regain some

The Conflict Between Logic And Passion In The Mayor Of...
Think with your head; follow your heart–the conflict between logic and passion has no definite
solution. Nevertheless, in The Mayor of Casterbridge, author Thomas Hardy proposes a clear
answer to this eternal debate. Intermixed with all of the fate, reputation, and wife–auctioning in the
novel, there exists a clear divide between logic–driven characters and those lead by passionate
impulses. The fates of these characters in addition to various symbols point to an absolute winner to
the everlasting conflict between logic and passion: logic. In the novel, Hardy uses the demise of
Lucetta Templeman, the bull, and the rise of Donald Farfrae to suggest the danger of being
compelled by passion. First and foremost, Lucetta does not act upon what is logically sound, but
rather upon what she feels, which in turn leads to her death. Lucetta settled in Casterbridge with the
sole intent of marrying Michael Henchard, and the circumstances for their union were absolutely
perfect: Susan died, Lucetta gained the affection of Elizabeth Jane Newson, and a rendezvous was
meticulously planned. But then Donald walks through Lucetta's door. Subsequent to a five minute
conversation, Lucetta's plan to marry Michael is completely obliterated, her "heart long[ing]" for
Donald (Hardy 183). Although she swore to be Michael's wife, she chose instead to marry Donald,
whom she loved "passionately" (198). Lucetta did not realize at the time however, that this rash,
heart–directed decision would lead her to the grave. Her concealed love letters written to Michael
were publicly flaunted, the skimmington–ride irreversibly tarnished her reputation, and she died.
Furthermore, Lucetta abandoned all previous sentiments, plans and promises due to sudden affection
for Donald. Her brain dictated that she follow–through with her pseudo–engagement to Michael as
promised, but she was deaf to logic. She acted with passion and paid the consequences; marrying
Donald cost her life. Ultimately, through Lucetta's ardent decision to marry Donald and subsequent
demise, Hardy portrays the dangers of following one's heart. The brash actions and downfall of the
bull which threatened Lucetta and Elizabeth Jane further demonstrate the adversity of being directed

Theme Of Power In The Mayor Of Casterbridge
Power–one's influence on society–is coveted by many. What has been sympathy in the past, has
become greed for more control, strength, and reverence from others. People have began to focus on
being all knowing and dominating, rather than being just a friend. The conquest to gain more power
has become a major influence on a person's actions; however, these actions are usually self
destructive, leading to a person's downfall. Power is what drives people's actions, and eat people
inside and out on their way to this ultimate goal. In the competition for power, only the people who
best comprehend their environment and adapt appropriately can ultimately succeed.. The Mayor of
Casterbridge follows multiple different characters in a prison–like society. In this society, there is a
constant thirst for power, and a fight for this control. Each character tries to quench this desire in a
different way, and ultimately many characters fail to reach this ideal situation. The characters in the
novel are very driven in their ways that there is a limited change in the fight for power. Many argue
that in order to have possession of all this power, one must be familiar about all aspects of society,
rather than being distant. In his novel The Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy argues this belief.
Through the character of Farfrae, the goldfinch, and the isolated death of Henchard, Hardy
advocates that innocence results in an expansion of power and self control. Donald Farfrae's
personality

The Picture of Dorian Gray is a short novel by Oscar Wilde originally published in 1890. The story
begins at the home of Basil Hallward and opens with a conversation between him and Lord Henry
Wotton. Lord Henry is fervently admiring Basil's latest portrait of a young, beautiful man, Dorian
Gray. Dorian Gray is the main protagonist in the story. He is described as having a "simple and
beautiful nature", and he remains this way until he is corrupted by the antagonist of the story, Lord
Henry, who reveals himself to be the epitome of selfishness and egocentricity. He convinces Dorian
that he must hold on to his youth as it will fade fast and he will grow old, which causes Dorian to
wish that the painting Basil has crafted will grow old ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
However, although Sybil truly loves him he rejects her and tells her he never wants to see her again.
When she commits suicide the night they break up, he shrugs her death off as "the past is the past,"
thus beginning the real transformation into the monster he is to become. He continues to get
progressively worse over the next decade or two until he murders Basil, who is attempting at the
time to get him to beg forgiveness for his sins and is telling him it is not too late to change his ways.
It is at this point that I believe that Dorian realizes he needs to change. One day while he is with
Lord Henry he complains about not being able to love anymore and begs Lord Henry never to give
the same yellow book to anybody ever again. However, when he returns to see if anything has
changed in the portrait he is met with a smirk of hypocrisy. Dorian realizes that it has become
impossible for him to turn back the moral dial; he had various opportunities to do so throughout the
novel, but it is too late. In a last ditch effort he tries to destroy the picture – the man he has become –
to redeem himself, but his attempts at redemption are unsuccessful; when he kills the man in the
portrait he kills himself. 2) Often when reading we come across a particular line and must go back
because it is simply worth another look. This line may give us chills and make us think for a second
only to disregard it

John Hardy 's Far From The Madding Crowd And The Mayor Of...
Characterization is a huge factor when determining the likability of any work of literature, due to the
human psychology, and can be shaped by many things such as first impressions, relationship
complications, and resolutions. In Thomas Hardy's famous works Far From the Madding Crowd and
The Mayor of Casterbridge, the differing portrayals of relationships and style of characterization
dictate the theme and overall likeability of the two rather similar novels. Despite the similarities, the
positively thematic ideals depicted by Bathsheba Everdene and Gabriel Oak's complex relationship
in Far From the Madding Crowd rivals that of Michael and Susan Henchard's toxic relationship in
The Mayor of Casterbridge, causing the latter to be less ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This in turn gives the reader something to look forward to. In Hardy's tragic novel The Mayor of
Casterbridge, an entirely different relationship is portrayed that greatly differs from that of Gabriel
Oak and Bathsheba Everdene's in Far From the Madding Crowd. Unlike the latter, the beginning of
The Mayor of Casterbridge articulates the marriage of Michael and Susan Henchard as expendable
when the disconsolate Michael sells his wife and daughter to a sailor. The immediate separation–and
later reunion–of the couple conveys a theme that the need for propriety can outweigh one's quest for
justice; and so, this broken and complicated relationship illustrates the commonality of faults in
human nature. In the very first chapter of the novel, Michael implores the people at an auction to
buy Susan and his daughter Elizabeth–Jane, remarking "the woman is no good to me. Who'll have
her?" (Hardy). This establishes a desperate view of Michael that is hard to shake in the real world
considering that, "research has in fact found that it can take up to 6 months of regular contact with
someone to change their initial impression" (McKay) which is why introducing a main character in a
directly negative situation–even if the rest of the book tries to make up for that one event–will affect
the way the

The Mayor Of Casterbridge Essay
Often, there are cases where an individual or a group of individuals reaches a level of success within
their field. Some may be elected to a government position, and some may start companies that thrive
financially. However, the companies and individuals that fail are the ones that are unable to maintain
the initial success and reputation that they had. In The Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy
weaves this idea throughout the events and symbols that make up this story about the rise and fall of
a man named Michael Henchard. The novel utilizes the actions of Henchard and others alongside
dynamics and traditions within the town to convey the theme that success and reputation are not
guaranteed to last,rgtc once they are earned. Hardy uses the repercussions of Henchard's
manipulation of others, the stone bridge at the edge of town, and the power structure in Casterbridge
to argue that success and reputation are not ensured for life when they are earned, and that they must
be constantly maintained and improved. Throughout many fields such as business and politics,
manipulation plays a key role in establishing positions of power and superiority for individuals who
want to be at the top of their field. However, manipulating individuals or groups of people can also
result in repercussions that could strip that power from whoever gained it. As Henchard became the
mayor of Casterbridge, he manipulated people in order to assert his dominance over them, and
utilize the power that he

The Indelibility Of The Past In The Mayor Of Casterbridge...
In the Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy shows how one man's mistakes can impact the rest of
his life. The two themes I found most significant in The Mayor of Casterbridge are honesty and the
indelibility of the past. In order to fully study these themes and their effects on our protagonist's life,
we must start where his story begins. Mr. Henchard, our story's namesake, has committed a grievous
sin by drunkenly auctioning off his wife and child. This is not the first time he has made an abusive
action against Susan, as evidenced by her line, "'I've lived with thee a couple of years and had
nothing but temper!" (Hardy 13). Evidently their relationship is incredibly flawed if Michael could
not put to rest his alcoholism and anger issues for the sake of his wife and child. He takes action
against his alcohol issues by vowing never to touch strong liquor for the next twenty years.
However, it is too late for his marriage and the damage has already been done. The place of women
in Henchard's life ties deeply into the indelibility of the past. When we meet him again, he has not
only become the most successful hay trusser in the town, but has also become the mayor. Henchard's
reformed behavior shows results, but it isn't enough to break him from his curse of bad interpersonal
relationships. For one thing, he has made commitments to another woman who caught feelings for
him and got in trouble for messing with him, and he felt he owed her something. While this story

Michael Henchard Critical Lens Essay
The quote "Proud people breed sad sorrows for themselves" said by Emily Brontë describes Michael
Henchard in the book The Mayor of Casterbridge written by Thomas Hardy. Throughout Henchard's
life he makes mistake after mistake, only to blame others for his wrongdoing; but ends up only
causing more harm to himself. In the beginning of this story, he starts out as a young, immature
husband who's abusive and always drunk, but after one detrimental night, his life's turned upside
down. He moves to, and later becomes mayor of, the small town of Casterbridge where he spends
years trying to forget about his past, until his past shows up disguised as his wife and daughter he
sold to a stranger 20 years prior. Michael Henchard's pride has caused him ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Lucetta falls ill and dies, and now Farfrae and Elizabeth–Jane are planning on getting married. Even
though Farfrae's now Henchard's enemy, he's willing to overlook his own emotions first, and put his
daughter's first. Henchard leaves town of their wedding day, but once Elizabeth–Jane hears that he
has left, she immediately goes looking for him and finds him at a friends house, near death.
Henchard passes and his daughter takes his will, only to read that "Elizabeth–Jane Farfrae be not
told of my death, or made to grieve." (242) Hardy's use of diction here is important because
Henchard says "Elizabeth–Jane Farfrae" which implies that he has learned to put his past rivalry
with Farfrae aside and accept their love. He also feels that he has caused enough pain in her life that
she does not deserve any more. He's somewhat guilty for all the things he has put her through. The
will continues to say "that no man remembers me." and Hardy's use of tone signifies that Henchard's
not doing this for pity, he's true in his words (242). This is a huge change in Henchard's character
because, previously, all he wanted was to be accepted and thought highly of by everyone, and now
he asks that no one remembers him. After reading her father's will, Elizabeth–Jane comes to the
realization that he has truly had a change of heart and that "the man who wrote them [the words on
the will] meant what he said." (243). Elizabeth–Jane's tone in this sentence suggest that she forgives
him for all the pain he has caused her, and she's willing to move forward. Through Henchard's
acceptance of her marriage, he's truly a different person, because before, he would have only
thought of how the situation applied to him but now he's finally thinking of other people. Henchard's
cognizance allowed him to realize that his pride was doing nothing but hurting his relationships with

Mayor Of Casterbridge By Michael Farfrae Analysis
The Resentment and Downfall of an Antihero In the mid–1800s, Michael Henchard and his wife
Susan, who carried their daughter Elizabeth–Jane, were walking down a path seeking a place to
lodge for the evening. Stopping at a county fair tent, the family decided to eat furmity, Michael
Henchard (who possessed a quick–temper and a drinking problem at the time) decided to slide the
cook extra money to spike his meal. After this point, the situation rapidly got out of hand and
Michael Henchard sold his wife and child to a sailor for five guineas. This was the shocking first
scene in Thomas Hardy's novel, Mayor of Casterbridge, published in 1886. To proceed with the
story and jump ahead almost two decades, Susan and Elizabeth–Jane sought out Henchard (since the
sailor was lost at sea and believed to never return) in the town of Casterbridge, where they
discovered that he was Mayor. From this point on, the husband and wife reconciled their differences,
married again, and started new beginnings together. However, things took a turn for the worse ever
since the two women materialized back into Henchard's life. Throughout the novel, Donald Farfrae,
a man Michael requested assistance from, availed in every aspect over Mr. Henchard, causing a
expeditious downfall to the latter. Their differences included love, success, popularity, fortune, and
authority. However, Farfrae was not the cause of Michael's misfortune, in fact Donald was noble in
all of his affairs. Michael Henchard was

Main Themes Of Dissatisfaction In The Mayor Of Casterbridge
The Mayor of Casterbridge has two main themes. One theme is dissatisfaction, which is a main
reason when the characters end relationships with each other. The other theme is the indelibility of
the past. Some characters had long term effects when their past was learned by other characters.
People were not forgiven for their past as easy in the early nineteenth as they are today. The author
used these themes very well, for people to assert into their life.
Dissatisfaction is very major in The Mayor of Casterbridge because many relationships are broken
and mended in the book. Those characters are dissatisfied with their current state of being, so they
move on to a different stage in their life, which can lead to other relationships being repaired. The
author is teaching the readers to move on, if something in their life is dissatisfying them.
One example of a character being dissatisfied is when Newson fakes his death because he knows
Susan is not satisfied and wants to go back to Michael Henchard. Susan found out that she didn't
have to stay with Newson, so she wanted to go back to Henchard. Susan became unpleasant to be
around, and Newson knew she wanted to go back to Henchard. On page 288, in The Mayor of
Casterbridge, Newson says " Since I'm here, here I'll bide, I thought to myself; twill be most
kindness to her, now she's taken against me, to let her believe me lost; for, I thought while she
supposes us both alive she'll be miserable; but if she thinks me dead she'll go back to him, and the
child will have a home." Newson faked his death to satisfy Susan and bring happiness in her life.
When Lucetta met Farfrae, she became dissatisfied with Henchard. To Lucetta, Farfrae was a
younger and better version of Henchard. Lucetta was going to marry Henchard, but she knew that
she should would not be happy with him. Lucetta also found out about Henchard's past, and she was
dissatisfied with the way he treated his first wife. On page 209, Lucetta says " I learnt of the rumor
that you had ⎯ sold your first wife at a fair, like a horse or cow. How could I keep my promise after
hearing that?" Lucetta knew she was not going to be satisfied with Henchard if she married him, so
she moved on with her life.
The other

The Mayor Of Casterbridge By Thomas Hardy Is A Novel That
The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy is a novel that gives insight into the minds and
relationships of its characters such as Michael Henchard. Through Hardy, the reader sees that
Henchard's self–concept is dependent on his status as a family figure and status as a public figure.
Here, self–concept is defined as a person's thoughts, beliefs, and feelings about oneself. His status of
a family figure means being a provider and a father and his status as a public figure means being
successful and powerful. His interactions with others is dependent on his self–concept. Both status
as a family figure and status as a public figure fluctuate, which causes Henchard 's self–concept to
fluctuate. The fluctuation of Henchard's self–concept ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
At this point in Henchard's life, his wife Susan had died, he had lost Lucetta to Farfrae, and he had
destroyed the relationship he had with Farfrae. Out of loneliness, he begins to long for Elizabeth–
Jane's. He accepts that he is not Elizabeth–Jane's biological father, but realizes that he can act like he
is because Elizabeth–Jane does not know the truth. Henchard, out of selfish intent, puts on the air
that he fits into his original view of his status as a family figure even though he is very far from it.
The impact of Henchard's fluctuating self–concept is seen in the different ways that he treats
Elizabeth–Jane. His attitude towards her moves from warm and caring to cold and distant and back
again. While he believes that he is Elizabeth–Jane's biological father, Henchard is warm and caring
towards Elizabeth–Jane. This can be seen by them taking frequent walks together. He, however,
does not show his full affection to Elizabeth–Jane though actions such as kissing her cheek because
he is viewed as her stepfather by the townspeople and by Elizabeth–Jane herself. After Henchard
convinces Elizabeth–Jane that he is her biological father, he reads a posthumous letter from Susan
saying otherwise. Instead of feeling joy at being able to show his full affection the next day "...it was
no less than a miserable insipidity to him now that it had come" (Chapter 19, para.34). The change
in his self–concept of himself as her biological father cast a shadow over their budding

Social Darwinism In The Mayor Of Casterbridge
Upon returning from his voyage, renowned scientist Charles Darwin published his findings on his
theory of "survival of the fittest". He claimed that the most "powerful" ascend higher on the scale of
survival, whereas the disadvantaged and weak remain at the bottom. A few decades later, this
concept was adapted to apply to social, economic and political issues–a term which later was coined
as Social Darwinism. This phenomenon was the basis for the explanation of why certain individuals
accumulate success and triumph over others. The theories of Darwin's work can be applied in
literature as well, especially in The Mayor of Casterbridge. In this case, the "strength" of an
individual was dependent on their reputation and social rankings. This placed females at a
disadvantage, due to the patriarchal standards and oppression, as well as those who were morally
unjust and disliked throughout the community, such as Henchard. Once engulfed in the
classification as "unfit", demise and suffering is no longer a force that can be controlled and evaded
by human actions. In his novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy applies the theories of
Social Darwinism to prove that suffering is inevitable among the morally and socially weak and
disliked through the recurring symbolism of animals, the unpredictable weather, and Lucetta's
demise. The inclusion of various animals in Hardy's novel serve a deeper purpose than as livestock
in the agrarian society of Casterbridge; they are symbolic

A Book On A Dirt Road Near The Village Of Weydon Priors
The novel opens on a dirt road near the village of Weydon–Priors, in the English county of Wessex.
Michael Henchard, a hay–trusser, is traveling with his wife, Susan, and young daughter, Elizabeth–
Jane. However, a passing farmer tells the Henchards that there is no chance of finding employment
or housing in the village. Discouraged, Michael takes his family to a furmity seller 's tent in
Weydon–Priors. The furmity seller adds liquor to Michael 's meal, and after several servings
Michael becomes an angry drunk. Because he believes his marriage at a young age ruined all his
chances for success, he offers to sell his wife and daughter to the highest bidder. After several
unanswered calls for bids, Susan says that someone should buy her, since her present owner isn 't to
her liking. Most of the other customers in the tent treat the auction as a joke, but soon a passing
sailor hears the announcements and enters the tent. He offers to buy Susan and Elizabeth–Jane for
five guineas, first making sure that Susan is willing to go. When Michael takes the money, Susan
and Elizabeth–Jane leave with the sailor. Before leaving, Susan hurls her wedding–ring at Michael.
Michael merely falls into a drunken slumber as the rest of the shocked customers leave.
The next morning, Michael awakens. Seeing the wedding ring and the money brings the events of
the previous evening back to him. He realizes that he was partly to blame for his actions, but he also
blames Susan for actually thinking that

The Mayor Of Casterbridge Essay
Literature:
Can it be said that Henchard's downfall is all due to 'some great error?' Some may believe that it is a
penance for selling Susan, but this would be to take Newson out of the equation, who, it must be
said, is just as guilty of this act as Henchard. I believe that Henchard is totally blameless for his
downfall, to use a bad pun that will become apparent later, it is in his nature. It is my belief that
Henchard is a personification of nature. It is obvious that his life has completed a revolution but
when you look closely, you can see that Henchard's life resembles the seasons.
Our first image of Henchard is one of winter, his clothing is ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
When he dies he is back in winter but just on the verge of spring, exactly like the start of the book.
Just having a life resembling the seasons would not immediately lead me to think that Henchard is
closely linked to nature, his very character seems natural. The best example of his naturalness is
when Farfrae introduces the rowing machine. Henchard is opposed to it and wishes to stay with the
tried and true, yet somewhat chaotic, seed lip. Henchard is, like nature, chaotic and unpredictable.
He is able to disgrace a man while keeping his mother well stocked with firewood. Henchard's
success can be attributed to his closeness to nature much more than his business acumen.
If Henchard's nature makes him fail, then it may be asked why Farfrae succeeds. I believe that
Farfrae is the antithesis of Henchard; he is very close to science, machines and the modern world.
While Henchard runs his business with 'you shall ha'et'; and 'I'll do't,'; Farfrae runs his with 'letters
and ledgers'; and also his rowing machine. The rowing machine is the best example in the novel of
how Farfrae runs his business, it precisely places the seeds in rows, letting none go to waste.
Hechard's beloved seed lip is exactly the opposite it scatters the seeds haphazardly allowing nature
to take its course. It, like Henchard, is highly chaotic and

Purpose Of Life In The Mayor Of Casterbridge By Thomas Hardy
The purpose of life is trailed by a string of theories, molded by the minds of individuals and
decorated with their personal opinions. Some may say that the purpose of life is success. Those who
fancy this ideology spend every given minute doing the absolute most they can do in order to feed
this new found obsession of success. Now, those same people may say that once they have obtained
success, their determination to maintain a dedicated reputation is no longer necessary. Their hard
work has finally paid off–or so they thought. These people who believe this, are wrong. Success is
the product of never ending diligence and persistence. These success stories happen when an
individual continues to work hard, even when they have reached their peaks. It is the act of
maintaining respect in a position, and understanding that confidence is a preferred descriptor to
arrogance. Because in the end, success is knowing that the second someone feels secure in a
position, inevitable change has the power to strip that happiness away from them. This very concept
can be learned by Thomas Hardy in his novel The Mayor of Casterbridge. Through Henchard's
character, the weather, and the transient nature of power and status, people should never be too
comfortable in a position or situation because nothing is permanent, except change.
Hardy uses Michael Henchard as a vehicle to illuminate that sudden change can affect positioning in
relationships–causing abandonment when efforts to maintain these

The Importance of Character and a Good Name in 'The Mayor...
The Importance of Character and a Good Name in The Mayor of Casterbridge Introduction The
novel The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy deals with the importance of character and
reputation. The story is centered on the life of Michael Henchard and his struggle with the
consequence of a decision made as a young man in an inebriated state. The novel begins with
Michael, his wife Susan, and their young daughter Elizabeth–Jane arriving in the town of Weyden–
Priors on "Fair Day." Michael drinks too much and in a fit of temper auctions off his wife and child
to a sailor for five guineas. Michael awakens the next day only to regret his intemperance and the
behavior that resulted. He looks for his family, is unable to find them and along the way goes to a
church and swears not to drink for 21years, his age at the time of the incident. It is significant to
note that originally Michael blames Susan for going off with the sailor, "Tis like Susan to show such
idiotic simplicity. Meek – that meekness has done me more harm than the bittersweet temper" (p.
17). However his pledge not to drink indicates that he accepts some responsibility for his actions.
Another noteworthy indication of Michael's character occurs on the same day. After he has sold his
wife and child when he worries, "Did I tell my name last night or didn't I tell my name? (p.17). He is
more as concerned with his reputation in a town that they had just wondered into than the fate of his
family. The story

What Does the Opening Chapter of the Mayor of Casterbridge...
come in the novel and Hardy's style?
In the first chapter of the Mayor of Casterbridge, the main characters are introduced to us from the
outset (a young family with a small child approaching the village of Weydon–Priors,) with the
opening line informing the reader immediately of fundamental characters in the story. Thomas
Hardy then immediately moves on to establish the protagonist, prior to conveying images of the
village setting to the reader. Thus, Hardy suggests to the reader that the main attention of the novel
will be on this man only and the way in which the setting and other characters influence him. This
immediate attention on Henchard helps to reinforce and illustrate that the sub title of the novel is
"The life and death ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The secrecy of Henchard's action discloses to the reader that he is disingenuous and has a deviant
nature. Henchard is unscrupulous too, "It has been done elsewhere " here Henchard is referring to
the wife sale, this exemplifies his unscrupulousness because he does not see anything wrong with
this action as it has happened previously.
Hardy also portrays quite strongly to the audience, the idea that Henchard is a selfish character who
is merely concerned with self preservation "She shall take the girl I'll take my tools " Henchard
displays no concern for his daughter and all he concerns himself with is his tools as this is linked to
his livelihood, shows he worries about self–protection but not about the needs of others. His selfish
nature as well as greedy character is shown when he demands the money: "Saying is one thing, and
paying is another. Where's the money?" Henchard uses a demanding and quite harsh tone suggesting
he is greedy and concerned with materialistic possessions, this is revealing of how little he thinks of
his wife he only sees her worth as a value of money. In York notes, by Rebecca Warren "many
critics feel that Hardy's portrayal of Michael Henchard

Major Characters Of Michael Henchard
Major Characters (5–10)
Name
Role in the Story
Significance
Adjectives
Michael Henchard
Susan
Donald Farfrae
Elizabeth–Jane
Lucetta Templeton (Le Sueur
Main protagonist, Susan's husband and stepfather to Elizabeth Jane
Henchard's wife and mother to Elizabeth–Jane
A young Scotsman with a lot of ambition. He becomes the mayor of Casterbridge
Susan and Newson's daughter and the stepdaughter of Henchard.
A young lady from New Jersey, who was initially interested in Henchard
The story mostly revolves around what happens to Michael Henchard. Michael Henchard is the
tragic hero. The novel begins with him being a hay–trusser to the mayor of casterbridge to his
terminal fall in the eyes of the society. Henchard becomes an outcast and poverty–stricken due to his
unchangeable character, which is flawed despite his determination to change.
Henchard auctioned her off to Newson, a sailor when he got completely wasted. After she was told
that the sailor was dead, she came back to Henchard with her grown up daughter Elizabeth– Jane.
She hides the fact that Elizabeth–Jane is the daughter of Newson and not Henchard. She keeps
Henchard in the dark until her death when he found out that Elizabeth was not his daughter

Farfrae introduces modern scientific methods of business to Casterbridge. He was planning to go to
the states but Henchard stopped because he needed a friend and a manager. He eventually becomes
the nemesis

Analysis Of ' The Mayor Of Casterbridge ' And Ved Vyas 's...
CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION
Feministic approach towards a text has developed a multitude of ways to unpack literature in order
to understand its essence. Scholars commonly known as Feminine Critique sought to divorce literary
analysis away from abstract diction–based arguments and instead tailored their criticism to more
"grounded" pieces of literature like plot, characters, and so on and recognize the implicit misogyny
of the structure of the story itself. My paper on The Disparate Treatment of Patriarchy in 'The Mayor
of Casterbridge ' and 'The Mahabharata' throws a feministic light in Thomas Hardy 's and Ved Vyas
's works. Through my paper I want to particularly highlight the treatment of patriarchy given to the
female protagonists. I want to highlight the different manners of their treatment or response towards
patriarchy and how even their being belonging to different origins and literary periods does not
improve the status of female characters in literature. My work will mainly focus on the take of the
female protagonists in the given situations and the different manners in which they deal with it. I
also want to emphasize the status quo of women in the society that we 've grown out of and in the
present scenario. The paper is entitled The Disparate Treatment of Patriarchy in 'The Mayor of
Casterbridge ' and 'The Mahabharata in which I've tried to bring into light the different manners of
treatment of patriarchy by the female protagonists in both the aforementioned

Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge Essay
Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge.
Sex is so intertwined in our society that it pervades each facet, including television, books,
advertising, and conversation. Movies like The Matrix toss in gratuitous sex because the audience
nearly expects it. Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge, therefore, is exceptional in its lack of
sexual situations. The subject of sexual motivation and its inherent ambiguity with regard to
Henchard's actions is a topic that caught my attention from the very first pages of The Mayor of
Casterbridge. Continually in the novel there is tension, but it is never described as sexual. Much the
same, there are countless marriages during the novel but no related sexual attraction is discussed.
The ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
It seems that for Henchard, "maturity involves a kind of assimilation of female suffering, an
identification with a woman which is also an effort to come to terms with with [his] own deepest
sel[f]" (Showalter, 394). It is not until the end of the novel that Henchard realizes this, withdraws
from society, and loses his will to live. However, his wrongdoings are not completely restricted to
women. For this reason, I believe that this indicates not misdirected sexual energy, but a general lack
of knowledge.
Henchard's act of selling his wife had clearly been mentioned between husband and wife prior to the
actual incident, but that does not mean that it was well thought out. In fact, it seems that Henchard
rarely thought things out to a full extent. Selling his wife in the first place would lead me to believe
that he never loved Susan at all.
"I married at eighteen, like the fool that I was; and this is the consequence. But a fellow never
knows these little things till all chance of acting upon 'em is past" (9).
Further, this quote shows that Henchard did not even think thoroughly about marrying Susan. He
claims that he was a fool because he was eighteen; I say that at this point in the novel, he had not
grown emotionally in the least.
Likewise, Henchard's relationship with Lucetta seems to be centered on a debt he felt he owed her
for

The Mayor Of Casterbridge, Symbolism, Animal Kingdom,...
Keywords: Thomas Hardy, The Mayor of Casterbridge, Symbolism, Bird Imagerey, Animal
Kingdom, Philosophy
Introduction
The Mayor of Casterbridge is one of the masterpieces and the imperishable novel of Thomas Hardy,
although it has never enjoyed the popularity of Tess and Jude. Hardy was at the height of his
creative powers when he began work on it at the age of forty four. Initially, the novel appeared
serially, in twenty installments, in 1886 in an English periodical, The Graphic, and was published in
book form in 1886 after revising for two or three times. The book appeared as soon as the serial
publication was complete but it differs a lot from the serial novel. It is a magnificent novel, although
Hardy himself was not entirely happy about it.
It was a story which Hardy fancied he had damaged more recklessly as an artistic whole, in the
interest of the newspaper in which it appeared serially, than perhaps any other of his novels, his
aiming to get an incident into each week's part causing him in his own judgment to add events to the
narrative somewhat too freely.1
On the first reading of the book, it seems to be a straightforward story but on deeper analysis one
can see that it is replete with symbols which have their own significance and that can be interpreted
variously if we analyze them as Thomas Hardy himself wrote while The Mayor of Casterbridge was
coming out serially that, "My art is to intensify the expression of things...so that the heart and inner

Character Analysis Of The Mayor Of Casterbridge
How heavily do one's characteristics impact their life? Hardy Lawrence's, The Mayor of
Casterbridge, answers this question with the main protagonist. By focusing on psychological
aspects, nuanced characters, and the everlasting concept of life's consequence, the power of the
character is revealed. Ultimately, one's character defines their life substantially. The Mayor of
Casterbridge revolves around the theme of character. Michael Henchard, the novel's protagonist, is
also the most complex. From the beginning, Henchard is filled with bitterness. He is doomed for
demise. Despite his efforts to change, he cannot. Henchard is described as a dejected twenty–one–
year–old hay–trusser. His drunken rage leads him to sell his wife and daughter at a county fair for a
mere five guineas. Following his actions, he experiences extreme guilt, which is indicative of his
tendency to respond to his circumstances with intense emotions. Swaying from one extreme emotion
to another is part of Henchard's character that makes him as complex as he is. As the novel
progresses, the reader notices Henchard's change of heart towards various circumstances and people.
As the novel opens with chaos and bitterness, it alludes to the general tone of Henchard's life. The
detail in which the protagonist is described allows for a deep analysis of his character. Lawrence
portrays Hechard as a character that aligns with the classic tragic hero. His impetuous behavior leads
to the grave mistake of

The Mayor Of Casterbridge Critical Analysis
Thomas Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge establishes the new trends of society, by contrasting
Michael Henchard and Donald Farfrae as polar opposites in his portrayal of the rising new
generation. Using the actions of the main characters Michael Henchard and Donald Farfrae, the
novel depicts the change in society as a new modern industrial culture integrates itself into the
traditional agrarian society. Modern beliefs about marriage and technology rival pre–existing
tradition that has been rooted in Casterbridge. The industrial revolution stands as a time marker in
history where a growing rift occurred between traditional and modern lifestyles. The revolution
brought more than just industrial changes, it also brought along a new era of cultural differences that
would disturb current society. The underlying changes come from the "social effect of
industrialization: the breaking up of the old social units and social relationships" (Hartwell 242),
these changes occur in Casterbridge between Michael Henchard and Donald Farfrae. Although
Henchard and Farfrae are both successful farmers and grain investors, their methods of gaining
success differ as Farfrae adapts new technologies while Henchard holds to old beliefs.
Michael Henchard typically sticks to the most conventional ways of farming and sustaining his
business, his firm hold on the past represents the hold of agrarian culture as it slips away from
evolving society. Casterbridge itself is another symbol of the past as "the

The Mayor Of Casterbridge By Michael Henchard
When the pair of Michael and Susan Henchard are reunited after years of separation, Henchard
exhibits a commitment to his redemption after he shamelessly sold her in the early years of their
marriage. He financially provides for Susan by buying her a cottage and informally courts her, as he
presumes this will rectify his past. His constituents in Casterbridge are rather nonplussed at his
sudden romantic inclination; however, the true nature of his actions is revealed only in narration and
not in action. Thomas Hardy ushers in Michael Henchard as a unique subset of the Victorian
Gentleman in his 1886 novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge. The limitations and rather restrictive
standards of Victorian social class have dominated Michael Henchard's limited individuality.
Henchard's stability and livelihood is tied exclusively to his position in Casterbridge. His raw
passion for community is unfettered by any notion of family or womanly pursuits; he is solely
concerned with his status in the hierarchy of the Victorian town. These pursuits hinder a desired
gentlemanly character and produces a figure of political hunger and masculinity that is clouded by
depression and denial. The inclusion of a middle class into the Victorian Era brought about changes
in both the political and social practices of small towns like Casterbridge. Henchard is a self–made
man who dominates his office as Mayor despite his relatively dismal upbringing. At the beginning
of the novel, Michael Henchard totes

dreams of vision
A Thesis ANALYSIS ON TRAGIC CHARACTER IN THE MAYOR OF CASTERBRIDGE By
ANDRI HERMANSYAH 102026024515 ENGLISH LETTERS DEPARTMENT FACULTY OF
ADAB AND HUMANITIES SYARIF HIDAYATULLAH STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY
JAKARTA 2009 APPROVEMENT ANALYSIS ON TRAGIC CHARACTER IN THE MAYOR
OF CASTERBRIDGE A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of Adab and Humanities In Partial
Fulfillment of the Requirements For the Degree of Strata (S 1) By ANDRI HERMANSYAH
102026024515 Advisory: INAYATUL CHUSNA, M.Hum. 150331233 ENGLISH LETTERS
DEPARTMENT FACULTY OF ADAB AND HUMANITIES SYARIF HIDAYATULLAH STATE
ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY JAKARTA 2009 ABSTRACT Andri Hermansyah, Analysis on Tragic
Character In The Mayor of Casterbridge. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
4 5.3 Data Analysis .............................................................................. 4 5.4 Unit of Analysis
.......................................................................... 4 5.5 Instrument of the Research
........................................................... 5 5.6 Time and Place
............................................................................. 5 CHAPTER II: THEORETICAL
FRAMEWORK..................................... 6 1. Definition of Character
....................................................................... 6 2. Kinds of Character
............................................................................. 9 3. Tragic Character
................................................................................. 10 4. Delineation of Character
..................................................................... 12 CHAPTER III: RESEARCH FINDINGS
.................................................. 14 1. Data Description
................................................................................ 14 1.1 Henchard As a Tragic Character
........................................................ 14 1.2 Henchard's Tragic Downfall
.............................................................. 15 1.2.1 Henchard's Mistakes
...................................................................... 15 1.2.2 Henchard Suffers Through More

Traditionalism In The Mayor Of Casterbridge By Thomas Hardy
In his foremost literary work, The Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy uses the very inspiration
of Casterbridge's traditions and setting itself paired with its foremost characters, Michael Henchard
and Donald Fafrae, to opine that traditionalism in any sense is an outdated and even self–destructive
culture; for this reason, it is the duty of the younger generation to resurrect traditionalistic societies
from collapsing.
Hardy constructs the fictional town of Casterbridge by drawing inspiration from his own hometown,
Dorchester, order to convey that standard, traditionalistic societies such as it are lamentable and ever
collapsing. Dorchester's many prominent and unlovable features, as in many of Hardy's novels, in
fact, are portrayed through direct parallels in Casterbridge's key features and traditions. The
'skimmity ride' organized by Joshua Jopp exposing Lucetta and her shameful history, for example, is
a landmark of the society that Hardy created and had lived in. Skimmity rides were actually well–
known traditionalistic English events; they were carried out in order to express public disdain of
sinful marital actions. Seeing that Hardy claims that he has derived Casterbridge from his memories
of Dorchester as a child, it is likely that Hardy has witnessed something like this before. Such an
embarrassment itself is not something that would ever be considered morally acceptable in an even
remotely modern society, especially considering that, seeing the laughter and

Michael Henchard Foil
According to the Online Dictionary for Literary Devices, "The etymology of the term foil testifies
the aforementioned assertion as the word 'foil' is taken from the practice of backing gems with foil
(tool) so that they shine more brightly." Throughout The Mayor of Casterbridge, Thomas Hardy sets
up multiple pairs of characters as foils to contrast them and express his opinion of what attributes a
person should have. Michael Henchard, who cares more for personal gain, is a foil to Richard
Newson, who cares for his wife and daughter. Elizabeth–Jane Newson outshines Lucetta
Templeman with her belief that a person's character is more valuable than outward appearance; in a
similar sense, Donald Farfrae surpasses Henchard in character and shows ... Show more content on
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While Henchard is still Mayor of Casterbridge, he sets up an event in a field for people to attend.
However, Henchard's plan fails because, "A number of people had heroically gathered in the field,
but by three o'clock Henchard discerned that his project was doomed to end in failure...'But where
are the folk?' said Henchard, after the lapse of half an hour, during which time only two men and a
woman had stood up to dance. 'The shops are all shut. Why don't they come?' 'They are at Farfrae's
affair in the West Walk'" (103–104). This event is the first major conflict that occurs between
Henchard and Farfrae, and this starts to develop the characters as foils. While Henchard hosts an
event in the rain, Farfrae hosts an event indoors that is popular; this shows Hardy's belief that
intelligence is a positive trait to have. Hardy shows that Farfrae uses logic and gains favor in the
town while Henchard does not and starts to become unpopular. Also defining Henchard and Farfrae
as foils, Farfrae shows self–control and understands how to control his anger. After Henchard
embarrasses himself in front of Royalty, Farfrae meets him and chastises him by saying,
"You insulted Royalty, Henchard; and 'twas my duty, as the chief magistrate, to stop you." "Royalty
be damned," said Henchard. "I am as loyal to you, come to that!" "I am not here to argue.

Mayor Of Casterbridge Essay
The Mayor of Casterbridge is an English novel written by Thomas Hardy in 1886 and is an
exploration into the values of common people, and the reliance on status to achieve happiness.
Michael Henchard is not unlike most men. He is tempered and blind often by selfish wants and
gains, but maintains a human aspect of misery that is relatable. Man's inherent need and want of
more transcend to other aspects such and relationships(whether romantic or of friendship) and the
disparity of man with a need of want, and dissatisfaction. It is based upon character whether the
man's wants will help him and others or become his downfall. Henchard needs to want and achieve
more to feel complete and without it he feels like nothing. The Mayor of Casterbridge truly
examines life as one of confusion and emptiness,but there is more to be seen. The lesser known
subtitle for the novel is " A Man of Character" and that title sums the work justly. Henchard is a man
whose name means everything to him. Like for most men, it's utterance can bring a sense of awe or
dread in a room, depending on the status of the man. The story relies heavily upon his name being
one of nothing to something and then nothing again. Had Henchard not sold his young family
away,he would have been with them and maintained his low class,but with them gone he now could
prosper. While the town he travels to doesn't know it, he is a man of low character,but can give the
facade of otherwise. After he sells his family this is

Mayor Of Casterbridge Narcissistic Characteristics

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