The Mayor of Casterbridge Plot Summary

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What does Henchard do in an auction that starts as a joke but turns serious?

Sells his wife and daughter

How long does Henchard swear not to drink alcohol for?

21 years

What relation does Elizabeth-Jane believe Henchard is to her when they reunite after 18 years?

Long-lost relative

How does Susan's death affect the relationship between Henchard and Farfrae?

Henchard becomes jealous of Farfrae

Who does Henchard hire as the new manager of his corn business?

Donald Farfrae

Why does Henchard decide to court and remarry Susan after her return?

To prevent Elizabeth-Jane from learning about their past

What promise does Henchard make in the church after selling his wife and daughter?

Not to drink alcohol for 21 years

What happens to Susan soon after remarrying Henchard?

She falls ill and dies

Who does Henchard regret selling in the auction?

Wife and daughter

Why does Henchard ask Farfrae to leave his business?

Out of jealousy and feeling inferior to Farfrae

Why does Henchard become cold towards Elizabeth-Jane?

He discovers she is not his biological daughter.

What causes Lucetta to become ill and eventually die?

Seeing the skimmity-ride event.

How does Henchard react to Newson's return to town?

He lies to Newson about Elizabeth-Jane being dead.

Why does Elizabeth-Jane snub Henchard on the night of her wedding?

She learns about Henchard's deceit.

What is revealed in Henchard's will as his dying wish?

His wish to be forgotten.

What motivates the peasants to organize the skimmity-ride event?

To humiliate Lucetta and Henchard for their past romantic involvement.

Why does Newson leave in sorrow after visiting Henchard's house?

Henchard tells him false information about Elizabeth-Jane.

Why does Lucetta come to Casterbridge?

To marry Henchard upon hearing of Susan's death.

What is the main reason Henchard decides to leave Casterbridge?

To avoid a confrontation with Newson.

What triggers Elizabeth-Jane's regret after snubbing Henchard?

She realizes the depth of Henchard's loneliness and sorrow.

What is the significance of Henchard's name in the novel?

It is a symbol of his integrity and reputation.

What role does Susan play in emphasizing the importance of reputation in the novel?

She warns Elizabeth-Jane about maintaining respectability.

How does Henchard's past decision impact his life in the novel?

It causes him to face constant guilt and regret.

What symbolic role does 'The Ring' play in the novel?

It symbolizes the town's connection to ancient Roman history.

Why is Henchard unable to escape the consequences of his past actions?

Because his actions have a lasting impact on his life.

What lesson does Henchard come to realize about his past as depicted in the novel?

That he must confront and accept his mistakes.

How does Lucetta differ from Henchard in terms of addressing their past mistakes?

Lucetta tries to cover up her history with Henchard.

What does 'defiant endurance' represent in relation to Henchard's character?

His perseverance and resilience in facing challenges.

How does Henchard's jealousy towards Farfrae impact his life in Casterbridge?

It results in a destructive competition that harms Henchard.

How does Henchard's perception of his own worth contribute to his character development?

It drives him to seek redemption for past mistakes.

What aspect of Michael Henchard's character distinguishes him as a 'Man of Character'?

His volatile temper and insecurities

How does Michael Henchard's life end in 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'?

He dies an unremarkable death in a humble cottage in the woods.

What quality of Michael Henchard does Thomas Hardy emphasize as making him a 'Man of Character'?

His determination to suffer and endure great pain

What does Henchard stipulate in his will regarding his legacy in Casterbridge?

He wants no one to mourn or remember him.

How does Henchard bear the burden of his mistakes throughout the novel?

By suffering the consequences and enduring pain

What marks a significant contrast between Henchard's character and the traditional concept of a 'Man of Character'?

His volatile temper and insecurities

How does Henchard's relationship with Elizabeth-Jane exemplify his character's complexities?

He deceives her despite caring about her deeply.

'The Mayor of Casterbridge' portrays Henchard's worth as a 'Man of Character' based on his ability to:

Endure great pain and suffer the consequences of his actions

'The Mayor of Casterbridge' depicts Michael Henchard as distinct from a typical 'Man of Character' due to his:

Insecurities and volatile temper leading to negative consequences

What key quality distinguishes Michael Henchard as a notable character in 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'?

His determination to endure suffering and consequence

Test your knowledge on the plot of Thomas Hardy's novel 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'. Explore the main events such as Michael Henchard selling his wife and daughter, and his vow to abstain from alcohol for twenty-one years.

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