Greene Ferne Farm · Question
How does Greene Ferne Farm develop the theme of Avarice and Moral Decay?
Answer
Greene Ferne Farm by Richard Jefferies develops Avarice and Moral Decay across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Andrew Fisher's miserly and cruel nature, hardened over ninety years, illustrates how greed and a lack of compassion lead to isolation and moral corruption, while his eventual financial loss and death serve as a cautionary tale.
Andrew's hoarding of wealth, his violent past (blinding a carter, laming a ploughboy), and his harsh treatment of family and workers illustrate moral decay driven by greed.
Old Fisher's avarice over a small financial loss leads to his downfall, contrasting with the generosity of the wedding feast.
Evidence in the book
- III: The Nether Millstone
Andrew's hoarding of wealth, his violent past (blinding a carter, laming a ploughboy), and his harsh treatment of family and workers illustrate moral decay driven by greed.
- XI: A Feast—Conclusion
Old Fisher's avarice over a small financial loss leads to his downfall, contrasting with the generosity of the wedding feast.
