Far From the MaddingCrowd by Thomas Hardy (no, not the pretty actor)

Another one of my Brighton charity shop finds… a book classic in excellent condition, with that iconic old book smell (similar to that of vanilla, in my opinion!). As expected for a Victorian classic, the book was initially released as chapters for a national magazine, however was Thomas Hardy’a fourth novel. I love that about old books as each chapter ends on a gripping cliff hanger!

‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ is a love story. Following the countryside life of strikingly stunning “Bathsheba” and three eligible bachelors she meets throughout her lifetime. Hardy eloquently describes each of her contrasting suitors- the wholesome farmer “Gabriel Oak“, lonely yet sweet “William Boldwood” and dashing soldier “Sergeant Troy”- and their individual attempts to wed the independent Bathsheba.

I was taken aback by the modern personality of Bathsheba, since she was a seemingly modern woman. A female farm owner who wishes to be single for as long as possible. I love the way he describes her sassy mannerisms and pursed lips as a contrast to the stereotypical ladies at the time. There is also a clever contrast between Bathsheba and her contented, passive maid.

Hardy describes everything in minute detail. This was initially impressive, however it did mean that the scandalous dramas finally unfolded at a good 300 pages in (the book is around 400 pages). I also found the literature rather difficult to follow, when I’m usually pretty good to access classical literature. I had to reread pages and ensure I was focussed when I took the time to read (hence the beach book pics), yet it is worth it if you are really into classics and romance. There is also a film made recently which I look forward to watching just to see how it really did pan out!

Movie quote- “What do you want? You want the moon? Just give me a lasso and I’ll get it for ya!” George, It’s a Wonderful Life. Now I’m not usually one for romance, unlike my younger brother, yet I adore this quote. George delivers the line so nonchalantly to show that love is as easy as breathing and that with love, you can accomplish anything for anyone.