The Mayor of Casterbridge
Miniseries
At a country fair, young hay-trusser Michael Henchard quarrels with his wife Susan, and in a drunken fit decides to auction off his wife and baby to a sailor for five guineas. The next day, realising his loss, he swears not to touch liquor again for as many years as he has lived so far. Eighteen years later, Henchard has become Mayor of Casterbridge, a man well respected but not well liked. The unexpected return of his wife and daughter Elizabeth Jane sets off a turn of events that force him to face the consequences of his selfish impulses and violent temper.
Where to Watch The Mayor of Casterbridge • Miniseries
2 Episodes
- Part OneE1
Part OneMichael Henchard, in a drunken rage, auctions his wife Susan and infant child to a passing seaman. Realising his folly, Henchard makes an oath to avoid alcohol for twenty-one years, prospering as a grain-trader and Mayor of Casterbridge. After eighteen years, newly widowed Susan and her grown daughter, Elizabeth-Jane, seek out an apparently changed Henchard. Partly from guilt, Henchard agrees to remarry Susan, on condition she stay silent on his past. Henchard hires a business manager, Farfrae, who quickly gains popularity, while Henchard’s dark nature resurfaces.
