Revolution in Agriculture: A conflict between Pre-modernity and Modernity - Depicted in the novel �The Mayor of Casterbridge�

Keerthy Sophiya Ponnachan

Volume : IV, Issue : XI, November - 2015

Revolution in Agriculture: A conflict between Pre-modernity and Modernity - Depicted in the novel �The Mayor of Casterbridge�

Keerthy Sophiya Ponnachan

Abstract :

Mid nineteenth century (around 1846) witnessed the transition that took place in agriculture, consequent to the repeal of the Corn Laws. This led to the import of grains to England, resulting in the alteration of entire structure and methods of agriculture in Britain. The novel, �The Mayor of Casteridge� (1886), subtitled "The Life and Death of a Man of Character� is considered as one of Thomas Hardy�s greatest works. Its theme is set in Casteridge, a fictional town untouched by modernism, where the people earn their livelihood by farming in traditional ways. The novel opens with the dire straits of the citizens over a damaged crop. The main character of the novel, Henchard, was elevated to the position of Mayor from a hay-trusser, who rules the town in line with the traditional customs and superstitions. On the contrary, the trader, Farfrae, introduces modern implements and efficient systems of farming to enhance agricultural production. He ings in a new machine to the town of Casteridge and started managing the entire grain market. Hardy unravels the transition of a quaint Casteridge that was isolated from modernity, into a more industrialized and economically viable town. Eventually the people ignore Henchard and align with the successful new merchant Farfrae. Throughout the novel are traces of a world that once was and will never be again. The conflicts between modern and traditional approaches to farming and harvest are demonstrated through the contrasting ethics of Henchard and Farfrae.