# IV: Gabriel’s Resolve; The Visit; The Mistake explained — Far from the Madding Crowd

> Chapter companion for Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy.

## What happens

Gabriel Oak, deeply in love with Bathsheba Everdene, resolves to marry her. He visits her aunt's cottage under the pretense of delivering a lamb, but is initially turned away by the aunt who falsely claims Bathsheba already has a sweetheart. Bathsheba runs after Gabriel to correct the mistake, but when he proposes again, she refuses, leaving him confused and rejected.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Gabriel's earnest proposal and Bathsheba's playful rejection highlight the complexities of romantic pursuit and the societal expectations of marriage.

### Independence and Gender Roles

Bathsheba asserts her independence by rejecting Gabriel's proposal and disliking being thought of as 'men's property,' challenging traditional gender norms.

### Pride and Humility

Gabriel's humility and honesty are portrayed as weaknesses in his pursuit of Bathsheba, while her pride leads her to correct a false rumor but still refuse him.

## Character check-ins

### Gabriel Oak

Resolves to marry Bathsheba, visits her aunt's cottage, and proposes twice; his humility and honesty hinder his success.

### Bathsheba Everdene

Runs after Gabriel to correct her aunt's false claim about having a sweetheart, but ultimately rejects his proposal.

### Mrs. Hurst

Bathsheba's aunt; mistakenly tells Gabriel that Bathsheba already has a young man, causing the misunderstanding.

### George

Gabriel's dog, follows him to the cottage with a concerned countenance.

## Key lines

> Farmer Oak had one-and-a-half Christian characteristics too many to succeed with Bathsheba: his humility, and a superfluous moiety of honesty.

Gabriel's excessive humility and honesty worked against him in winning Bathsheba's affection.

_Highlights Gabriel's character flaws in the context of courtship._

> I hate to be thought men’s property in that way, though possibly I shall be had some day.

Bathsheba dislikes the idea of being owned by a man, even though she acknowledges she might marry eventually.

_Reflects Bathsheba's independent spirit and resistance to traditional gender roles._

## Links

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