XLIII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Reputation

  Henchard's fall from mayor to laborer is symbolized by his return to working clothes; the town's reaction to Farfrae's choice of Elizabeth-Jane underscores class consciousness.

• Isolation and Connection

  Henchard's self-imposed exile contrasts with Elizabeth-Jane's reunion with her biological father and her impending marriage, highlighting themes of belonging and alienation.

• Deception and Truth

  The revelation of Henchard's deception about Elizabeth-Jane's paternity is resolved, leading to her reunion with Newson and Henchard's departure.

Characters to notice

• Michael Henchard

  Leaves Casterbridge alone, reverting to working clothes, after confessing to Elizabeth-Jane and giving his blessing to her marriage.

• Elizabeth-Jane Newson

  Accompanies Henchard partway out of town, then meets Donald Farfrae and is reunited with her biological father, Richard Newson.

• Donald Farfrae

  Meets Elizabeth-Jane after Henchard's departure, brings her to his house to meet Richard Newson, and discusses wedding plans.

• Richard Newson

  Returns to Casterbridge and is reunited with Elizabeth-Jane at Farfrae's house, expressing pride in her and agreeing to the wedding.

• Christopher Coney

  Part of the philosophic party at the Three Mariners discussing Farfrae's choice of Elizabeth-Jane.

• Solomon Longways

  Part of the philosophic party at the Three Mariners discussing Farfrae's choice of Elizabeth-Jane.

Key passages

• “I wish to go away. My presence might make things awkward in the future; and, in short, it is best that I go.”

  Henchard tells Elizabeth-Jane he must leave because his presence would cause problems later.

  Henchard's decision to exile himself to avoid complicating Elizabeth-Jane's life.

• “He went on till he came to the first milestone, which stood in the bank, halfway up a steep hill. He rested his basket on the top of the stone, placed his elbows on it, and gave way to a convulsive twitch, which was worse than a sob, because it was so hard and so dry.”

  Henchard stops at a milestone and suffers a dry, convulsive sob of anguish.

  Henchard's emotional breakdown as he leaves Casterbridge.

• “In the armchair sat the broad-faced genial man who had called on Henchard on a memorable morning between one and two years before this time... It was Richard Newson.”

  Elizabeth-Jane finds Richard Newson, her biological father, waiting in Farfrae's sitting room.

  The reunion of Elizabeth-Jane with her true father, Richard Newson.