The Mayor of Casterbridge

Set in late summer before the nineteenth century, the story follows a young man and woman, accompanied by a child, as they approach the village of Weydon-Priors in Upper Wessex. Their long journey has left them dusty and somewhat shabby, yet their clothing hints at a humble but respectable background. The man, characterized by his stern demeanor and skilled countryman’s gait, carries a rush basket with tools, reflecting his connection to the land and a life of labor. The narrative hints at deeper themes of struggle and resilience amidst their journey.