Mayor of Casterbridge

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Name and describe the main characters of the novel

Henchard- Henchard is the main character of the novel, he is an old-fashioned, somewhat sexist and controlling man. He could be described as a controlling and aggressive person, who loses his own control over his whole life throughout the novel. He is possessive, jealous, resentful and skeptical. 

Farfrae- He is contemporary,modern and current. He is young and full of energy and ideas. Fafrae is an intelligent/competant young man, and he has the knowledge to build up Casterbridge. He could also be described as cautious, inquisitive, analytical, effective, wise, able.

Susan- Susan is Henchards "sold" wife, she is overpowered, disheartened, broken and demoralised as time pases throughout her life. She is a weak, indecisive and insecure woman, (vowels which would relate to most women back in this era). She was powerless in the hands of men.

Elizabeth Jane- She is Susan's daughter (NOT Henchards). She could be described as a sincere and innocent girl, yet childish and naive. She is caring,nurturing, gentle, yet infantile and powerless. She was secondary, not dominating, as all girls were.

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Quotations to remember

"Why, begod, i'd sell mine this minute, if anybody would buy her?"- Henchard speaking of Susan.

"I will avoid all strong liquors for the space of twenty-one years"- Henchard taking his oath

"Turn grown wheat into wholesome wheat i'll take it back with pleasure. But it can't be done"- Henchard on wheat production.

"Do you forgive me Susan?... Judge me by my future works"- Henchard speaking to Susan.

"That performance of theirs killed her, but kept me alive"- Henchard on Lucetta's death due to the skimmity ride.

"and that no man remember me"- Henchard's will found by newly wed Farfrae and Elizabeth.

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