The Mayor of Casterbridge · Chapter
Chapter XXXVIII explained
Henchard, humiliated by Farfrae's public shoving and Lucetta's denial of his past assistance, lures Farfrae to the granary loft for a wrestling match with one arm tied.
What happens
Henchard, humiliated by Farfrae's public shoving and Lucetta's denial of his past assistance, lures Farfrae to the granary loft for a wrestling match with one arm tied. He nearly throws Farfrae out the door to his death but relents, overcome by remorse and memories of their former friendship. He then seeks Farfrae's forgiveness but finds he has already left Casterbridge.
Themes in this chapter
Pride and Fall
Henchard's pride is shattered by public humiliation, yet his inability to kill Farfrae shows a deeper moral fall and redemption.
Deception and Truth
Lucetta's denial of Henchard's help and Henchard's own self-deception about his violent intentions highlight the theme.
Isolation and Connection
Henchard's violent act and subsequent remorse underscore his profound isolation, while his memory of past connection with Farfrae drives his change of heart.
Characters to notice
- Michael Henchard
Plans and nearly executes a murderous revenge on Farfrae, but stops himself out of lingering affection and remorse.
- Donald Farfrae
Confronts Henchard in the loft, wrestles him, and is spared; afterwards leaves Casterbridge without reconciliation.
- Lucetta Templeman
Publicly denies Henchard's past help, deepening his sense of betrayal and degradation.
- Joshua Jopp
Briefly speaks with Henchard after the snub, sharing his own failed attempt to win Lucetta's intercession.
- Abel Whittle
Mentioned as bringing a letter to Farfrae while he harnesses the gig.
Key passages
“She has supplicated to me in her time; and now her tongue won't own me nor her eyes see me!”
Lucetta once begged me for help; now she refuses to acknowledge me.
Henchard reflects on Lucetta's ingratitude after hearing her deny him.
“O Farfrae!—that's not true! ... God is my witness that no man ever loved another as I did thee at one time.”
Farfrae, that's a lie—I once loved you more than anyone.
Henchard, on the verge of killing Farfrae, breaks down and confesses his former deep affection.