The Mayor of Casterbridge · Chapter
Chapter XXXVI explained
Jopp approaches Lucetta to ask for a recommendation to Farfrae for a partnership, but she coldly refuses.
What happens
Jopp approaches Lucetta to ask for a recommendation to Farfrae for a partnership, but she coldly refuses. Later, Henchard gives Jopp a sealed package of Lucetta's letters to deliver to her, but Jopp, resentful of Lucetta's haughtiness, opens the package and reads the letters aloud at the Peter's Finger inn, revealing Lucetta's secret past. The letters spark talk of a skimmity-ride, and a stranger arrives at the inn, crossing the stream to seek shelter.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Truth
Jopp's opening and reading of Lucetta's private letters exposes her hidden past, contrasting her public reputation with the truth.
Social Class and Reputation
Lucetta's high social standing is threatened by the revelation of her letters, and the lower-class patrons of Peter's Finger relish the chance to shame her.
Characters to notice
- Lucetta Templeman
Coldly refuses Jopp's request for a recommendation to Farfrae, anxious to avoid her husband's suspicion.
- Joshua Jopp
Seeks Lucetta's help for a partnership with Farfrae, then opens and reads Henchard's package of Lucetta's letters at Peter's Finger, driven by resentment and curiosity.
- Michael Henchard
Gives Jopp a sealed package of Lucetta's letters to deliver, avoiding being seen at her house.
- Mrs. Cuxsom
Joins Jopp and Nance Mockridge at Peter's Finger, encourages reading the love letters, and suggests a skimmity-ride.
- Nance Mockridge
Present at Peter's Finger, expresses shock at Lucetta's letters and proposes a skimmity-ride.
- Richard Newson
Arrives at Peter's Finger as a stranger, crossing the stream and seeking lodging for the night.
Key passages
“I think, ma'am, that a word or two from you would secure for me what I covet very much,”
Jopp believes that a brief recommendation from Lucetta would help him get the partnership he desires.
Jopp's persistence highlights his desperation and Lucetta's refusal to assist.
“I'd like to shame her! Upon my life, 'twould be as good as a play to read her love-letters, the proud piece of silk and waxwork!”
Jopp expresses a desire to humiliate Lucetta by revealing her love letters, comparing the spectacle to entertainment.
Jopp's resentment fuels his malicious intent to expose Lucetta's secrets.