The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy
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Questions and Answers

What was Thomas Hardy's father's occupation?

  • Stonemason (correct)
  • English writer
  • Local architect
  • Village mayor

    • What was the main reason why English magazines and libraries refused to publish certain materials?

  • Due to the high cost of printing
  • As a result of the writer's social status
  • Because the content was not suitable for the entire family (correct)
  • Since the content was not educational

    • How does Thomas Hardy's nature portrayal differ from Darwinism?

  • Hardy's nature is always amoral and indifferent
  • Hardy's nature is sometimes benevolent and sometimes malevolent (correct)
  • Hardy's nature is consistently benevolent and moral
  • Hardy's nature is consistently malevolent and cruel

    • What is the significance of the title 'Far from the Madding Crowd' in Thomas Hardy's novel?

    <p>It quotes a poem by Thomas Gray, emphasizing the quiet, rural existence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Thomas Hardy's portrayal of nature differ from Eliot's?

    <p>Hardy's nature is more indifferent, while Eliot's considers the possibility of tragedy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main theme of Thomas Hardy's novel 'Far from the Madding Crowd'?

    <p>The power of redemption in the face of tragedy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the definition of 'madding' in Thomas Gray's poem 'Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard'?

    <p>Frenzied or maddening</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Thomas Hardy's portrayal of characters reflect his social commentary?

    <p>His characters are flawed and reflective of social class</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of Thomas Hardy's essay 'Candor in English Fiction' (1889) in the context of his literary career?

    <p>It highlights his criticism of social conventions in literature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common theme between Thomas Hardy's and Eliot's works?

    <p>Both are set in small villages and towns</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Thomas Hardy's Life and Works

    • Hardy's novel "The Mayor of Casterbridge" (1886) made him weep while writing it, and he vowed not to touch liquor again for 21 years.
    • Hardy's intention was to make a tragedy out of a simple man's life, as per classical standards, in "The Mayor of Casterbridge".

    The Mayor of Casterbridge (1886)

    • The novel's themes revolve around the life of Michael Henchard, a tragic figure whose flaws lead to his downfall.
    • Hardy's portrayal of Henchard received praise from critics for its psychological depth and compelling plot.

    Tess of the D'Urbervilles (1891)

    • "Tess of the D'Urbervilles" is a deliberate revision of "Pamela" and explores the theme of a poor girl from an aristocratic family.
    • Hardy views Tess as unfit for her environment, rather than a victim of nature's cruelty or indifference.
    • The novel's subtitle, "A Pure Woman", was provocative and sparked controversy.

    Jude the Obscure (1895)

    • The novel explores social problems in Victorian England, including marriage, the Church, and education.
    • The novel spans 19 years, and Jude's experiences make him seem much older than his 30 years.
    • Hardy's purpose in writing the novel was to explore doubt as a transfer of faith.

    Far from the Madding Crowd (1874)

    • The novel is set in Thomas Hardy's fictional region of Wessex in rural southwest England.
    • The title is taken from Thomas Gray's poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" (1751).
    • The novel focuses on themes of female autonomy, identity, and resilience, particularly through the character of Bathsheba Everdene.

    Hardy and the Natural World

    • Hardy's father was a stonemason, and he was apprenticed to a local architect.
    • Hardy's writing often explores the natural world, which can be benevolent or malevolent, but ultimately amoral and indifferent to human happiness or survival.

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    Test your knowledge of Thomas Hardy's novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge, a tragedy that explores themes of modern life. See how well you understand the novel's plot, characters, and themes.

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