The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy (Hardcover)

Description

“The Mayor of Casterbridge” is a novel written by the English author Thomas Hardy. It was first published in 1886 and is considered one of Hardy’s major works. The story is set in the fictional town of Casterbridge and follows the life of Michael Henchard, a hay trusser who, in a fit of drunkenness, sells his wife and child at a fair.

The next day, regretting his impulsive actions, Henchard gives up drinking and vows not to touch alcohol for 21 years. The novel then traces Henchard’s life over the following decades, depicting his rise to power and prominence in Casterbridge and the complex relationships he forms with other characters, including Elizabeth-Jane, who may be his daughter.

“The Mayor of Casterbridge” explores themes such as fate, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. The novel is known for its realistic depiction of rural English life and the complexities of human relationships. Hardy’s works, in general, often deal with the struggles of individuals against the inexorable forces of fate and societal expectations.

The character of Michael Henchard is a tragic figure, and the novel is often regarded as a classic example of Victorian literature. It reflects Hardy’s pessimistic view of human nature and the challenges faced by individuals in a changing society.