The Mayor of Casterbridge · Chapter
The Return of Susan and Elizabeth-Jane explained
Elizabeth-Jane Newson arrives in Casterbridge and delivers a message to Michael Henchard, revealing that her mother, Susan Newson, is alive and in town.
What happens
Elizabeth-Jane Newson arrives in Casterbridge and delivers a message to Michael Henchard, revealing that her mother, Susan Newson, is alive and in town. Henchard, who had long believed them dead, is deeply moved and arranges a secret meeting with Susan at the Ring. Meanwhile, Joshua Jopp arrives for a job as manager but is turned away because Henchard has already hired Donald Farfrae, sowing seeds of resentment.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Truth
Henchard conceals the truth of his past from Elizabeth-Jane, while Susan keeps the note's contents secret, highlighting layers of deception.
Fate and Consequence
Henchard's past actions resurface with Susan's return, forcing him to confront the consequences of his youthful folly.
Characters to notice
- Elizabeth-Jane Newson
Innocently delivers the message to Henchard, unaware of the past; her modest dress and gentle manner affect Henchard deeply.
- Michael Henchard
Shocked and emotional upon learning Susan is alive; writes a secret note and gives money, showing both guilt and a desire to control the situation.
- Susan Henchard
Receives Henchard's note at the inn; keeps its contents from Elizabeth-Jane, indicating her compliance with Henchard's wishes.
- Donald Farfrae
Observes Henchard's mood changes; is now installed as the new manager, displacing Joshua Jopp.
- Joshua Jopp
Arrives for an appointment but is rejected by Henchard; leaves angry and humiliated, foreshadowing future antagonism.
Key passages
“It never rains but it pours!”
Henchard exclaims that troubles come all at once, as the arrival of Susan and Elizabeth-Jane overshadows his new friendship with Farfrae.
This proverb captures Henchard's sense of being overwhelmed by sudden events.
“The amount was significant; it may tacitly have said to her that he bought her back again.”
The five guineas Henchard enclosed in the note implied he was attempting to reclaim Susan as his wife, as if purchasing her return.
The narrator hints at Henchard's transactional view of relationships, echoing his earlier sale of Susan.