The Mayor of Casterbridge

Overview

Michael Henchard, a struggling hay-trusser, makes a tragic mistake when he drunkenly sells his wife and child to a sailor for five guineas at a fair. Moved by guilt, he vows to abstain from alcohol for twenty-one years. Through determination and hard work, he transforms his life, achieving wealth and the position of mayor in Casterbridge. However, the reappearance of his estranged wife and daughter, Elizabeth-Jane, eighteen years later brings turmoil, leading to a downward spiral in his once-thriving fortunes. Henchard's story unravels as he confronts the consequences of his past.

Episodes

• 1
  

  Part One

  In a moment of drunken folly at a country fair, Michael Henchard sells his wife to a sailor. Over the years, he finds success, ultimately rising to th...

  Jan 22, 1978
• 2
  

  Part Two

  Henchard has become the Mayor of Casterbridge. When his wife unexpectedly reappears after being sold by him eighteen years ago, he feels compelled to ...

  Jan 29, 1978
• 3
  

  Part Three

  Consumed by jealousy, Henchard dismisses Donald Farfrae and bans him from seeing Elizabeth-Jane. However, when his wife Susan passes away, it marks on...

  Feb 05, 1978
• 4
  

  Part Four

  Elizabeth-Jane is employed by Lucetta, who, after catching the eye of Henchard, has now turned her affections towards Farfrae. Enraged by this shift, ...

  Feb 12, 1978
• 5
  

  Part Five

  Henchard's hidden past has been revealed. Accused of selling his wife and facing a failing business, he is further devastated to learn that Lucetta ha...

  Feb 19, 1978
• 6
  

  Part Six

  Farfrae is elected as the Mayor of Casterbridge. Meanwhile, Lucetta, worried that Henchard might unveil her past by revealing their love letters, plea...

  Feb 26, 1978
• 7
  

  Part Seven

  Lucetta has passed away, falling victim to a cruel deception. Henchard's brief attempt to reconcile with Elizabeth quickly crumbles when her father ar...

  Mar 05, 1978