upgrade

📔intro to comparative literature review

The Mayor of Casterbridge

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Mayor of Casterbridge is a novel written by Thomas Hardy, first published in 1886, that explores themes of fate, social change, and personal responsibility through the story of Michael Henchard, a man who rises to prominence only to face the consequences of his past actions. The narrative examines the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal expectations within a realist framework, reflecting the struggles of individuals against the forces of fate and environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Michael Henchard, the protagonist, makes a life-altering decision to sell his wife at a fair, which sets the stage for his tragic downfall.
  2. The novel is set in the fictional town of Casterbridge, representing a changing rural England during the late 19th century.
  3. Hardy's writing style combines detailed descriptions of setting and character psychology, contributing to the overall realism of the narrative.
  4. Themes of fate and chance are central to the story, as Henchard's past decisions haunt him and affect his relationships with others.
  5. The novel ends with a sense of inevitability, highlighting Hardy's belief in the relentless forces that shape human lives.

Review Questions

  • How does Thomas Hardy use realism in 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' to portray Michael Henchard's character development throughout the novel?
    • Hardy employs realism to delve into Michael Henchard's character by presenting him as a flawed individual whose choices lead to his eventual downfall. The realistic portrayal of his struggles with ambition, regret, and moral conflict allows readers to relate to his journey. Through detailed descriptions of Henchard's emotional turmoil and societal pressures, Hardy effectively showcases how real-life experiences and personal decisions shape one's identity.
  • Discuss the role of fate versus personal responsibility in 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' and how this theme is reflected in Henchard's actions.
    • In 'The Mayor of Casterbridge', Hardy intricately weaves the themes of fate and personal responsibility, illustrating how Henchard's life is impacted by both external circumstances and his own choices. While some events seem dictated by fate, such as his initial misfortune after selling his wife, it is ultimately Henchard's decisions—rooted in pride and impulsiveness—that lead to his tragic end. This duality emphasizes that while individuals may be influenced by their circumstances, they also possess agency in shaping their destinies.
  • Evaluate how 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' reflects broader social changes occurring in England during Hardy's time and its implications for individual lives.
    • 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' serves as a microcosm for the social changes happening in late 19th-century England, such as industrialization and shifts in class dynamics. As Casterbridge transitions from a rural economy to one influenced by industry, characters like Henchard struggle to adapt to these changes. Hardy critiques how society imposes rigid expectations on individuals, ultimately showing that while progress offers opportunities for some, it can also lead to disillusionment and tragedy for those unable to keep pace with evolving social norms.