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The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy is a Victorian novel set in the fictional town of Casterbridge, inspired by Dorchester, England. It delves into the life of Michael Henchard, who rises to become mayor after a fateful decision to sell his wife and daughter. The book explores themes of fate, redemption, and the impact of past actions, showcasing Hardy's use of Naturalism and psychological depth.
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The novel is set in the Victorian era, a time of societal changes and industrialization
Exposure to Architecture
Hardy's background in architecture influenced his attention to detail in describing settings
Local Landscape and Architecture
Hardy's deep understanding of the local landscape and architecture adds richness to the story's setting
The novel exemplifies the Naturalist approach to studying human behavior within fiction
The novel follows the rise and fall of Michael Henchard, a man burdened by his past and prone to self-destructive behavior
Susan and Elizabeth-Jane
Henchard's wife and daughter play pivotal roles in the story, representing resilience and moral strength
Donald Farfrae
Henchard's former protégé and eventual rival offers a contrast to Henchard with his calm demeanor and business acumen
Other Characters
Additional characters, such as the sailor Richard Newson, Henchard's former lover Lucetta, and the embittered employee Jopp, contribute to the intricate social fabric of the novel
Hardy's deliberate choice of words sets the tone and mood of the novel
The use of flashbacks adds depth to the characters' histories
Red Motif
The recurring red motif symbolizes Henchard's intense emotions and deep-seated shame
Other Symbols
The caged goldfinch and the Roman amphitheater serve as symbols for Henchard's entrapment and the cyclical nature of his suffering
The novel explores the idea that one's actions have lasting consequences and that personal agency is constrained by fate
Henchard's tragic story serves as a testament to the deterministic view of human existence, where one's past inevitably influences their future
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Original publication format of 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'
Serialized in 'The Graphic' magazine.
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Real-world inspiration for Casterbridge
Modeled after Dorchester, rural England.
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Initial shocking act by protagonist in 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'
Sells his wife and daughter.
