The Mayor Of Casterbridge Link

: In a drunken rage at a country fair, young hay-trusser Michael Henchard auctions off his wife, Susan, and infant daughter to a sailor for five guineas.

: Eighteen years later, Susan and a grown Elizabeth-Jane return. Henchard’s past resurfaces, clashing with his rigid pride and his rivalry with a progressive young Scotsman, Donald Farfrae. A series of financial failures and exposed secrets eventually strip Henchard of his status and family, leading to a lonely, tragic end. Key Characters The Mayor of Casterbridge

: A woman from Henchard's past who arrives in Casterbridge to marry him, but falls for Farfrae instead. The Mayor of Casterbridge | Summary, Characters & Analysis : In a drunken rage at a country

: A modern, technically-minded newcomer who eventually replaces Henchard in both business and civic leadership. A series of financial failures and exposed secrets

: Michael's meek wife who returns to him years after being "sold".

: Horrified by his actions the next day, Henchard swears an oath to abstain from alcohol for 21 years—the length of his life at that point.