# Chapter XXI explained — The Mayor of Casterbridge

> Chapter companion for The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy.

## What happens

Elizabeth-Jane decides to leave Henchard's house and move in with Lucetta Templeman at High-Place Hall. Despite Henchard's last-minute attempt to persuade her to stay, she departs. The chapter describes her fascination with the house and her meeting with Lucetta in the churchyard, where they finalize the arrangement.

## Themes in this chapter

### Change vs. Tradition

Elizabeth-Jane's move to High-Place Hall represents a break from her past life with Henchard and an embrace of new social opportunities, while Henchard clings to the old order.

### Isolation and Connection

Lucetta's desire for 'some living thing' in her hollow house and Elizabeth-Jane's longing for a new connection highlight themes of loneliness and the search for companionship.

## Character check-ins

### Elizabeth-Jane Newson

Decides to leave Henchard's home and move to High-Place Hall; meets Lucetta in the churchyard and arranges to move in that evening.

### Michael Henchard

Surprised by Elizabeth-Jane's immediate departure; tries to persuade her to stay but fails; his coldness toward her is evident.

### Lucetta Templeman

Arrives at High-Place Hall; meets Elizabeth-Jane in the churchyard and invites her to live with her.

## Key lines

> But you said I might go, father?

Elizabeth-Jane reminds Henchard that he gave her permission to leave.

_Shows Elizabeth-Jane's determination and Henchard's reluctance to let her go._

> I think it best for us that I go on now. I need not stay long; I shall not be far away; and if you want me badly I can soon come back again.

Elizabeth-Jane tries to reassure Henchard that her departure is temporary and for the best.

_Reflects her desire for independence while maintaining a connection with Henchard._

> My house is so hollow and dismal that I want some living thing there.

Lucetta expresses her loneliness and desire for company in her new home.

_Highlights Lucetta's isolation and her need for companionship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mayor_of_casterbridge_se/chapters/xxi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mayor_of_casterbridge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mayor_of_casterbridge_se/chapters