The Mayor of Casterbridge

Set in a fictional rural England, this novel explores the life of a man whose character shapes his destiny in the town of Casterbridge, mirroring Hardy's own experiences in Dorchester. The narrative unfolds the complexities of human nature and the consequences of choices, delving into themes of fate, loss, and redemption. Originally serialized in 1886, it reflects Hardy's deep connection to the Wessex landscape and offers a poignant examination of societal norms and personal integrity.