XVI explained

What happens

Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Themes in this chapter

• Pride and Fall

  Henchard's pride drives him to organize a lavish free festival to outshine Farfrae, but his plan backfires when Farfrae's modest event attracts the crowd, leading to Henchard's public humiliation and his rash decision to dismiss Farfrae.

• Change vs. Tradition

  Farfrae represents modern, efficient methods (ciphering, mensuration, purification of wheat) that contrast with Henchard's old-fashioned, rough-and-ready ways (reckoning by chalk strokes, measuring by arm, judging by a chaw). The town's preference for Farfrae's approach signals the triumph of change over tradition.

• Deception and Truth

  Henchard's outward courtesy toward Farfrae masks his growing jealousy and resentment; he deceives himself about his own motives, and his public announcement that Farfrae is leaving is a half-truth born of spite rather than genuine business necessity.

Characters to notice

• Michael Henchard

  Mayor and corn-factor; grows reserved and jealous of Farfrae, organizes a grand public festival, but is humiliated when Farfrae's rival event draws the crowd; in a jealous outburst, he tells Farfrae his employment is ending.

• Donald Farfrae

  Henchard's manager; proposes a modest admission-charged entertainment for the national holiday, which proves more popular than Henchard's free festival; quietly accepts Henchard's announcement that his time as manager is drawing to a close.

• Elizabeth-Jane Newson

  Observes the dancing with interest; dances a quaint old country dance with Farfrae, but Henchard withholds approval.

• Susan Henchard

  Present as an onlooker at the festivities; Henchard waits for her to be disposed to go home.

• Abel Whittle

  Mentioned among the townspeople; not directly involved in the chapter's main action.

• Joshua Jopp

  Mentioned among the townspeople; not directly involved in the chapter's main action.

Key passages

• “He was courteous—too courteous—and Farfrae was quite surprised at the good breeding which now for the first time showed itself among the qualities of a man he had hitherto thought undisciplined, if warm and sincere.”

  Henchard became overly polite with Farfrae, surprising him with a refined manner that seemed out of character for someone he had considered rough but genuine.

  Highlights Henchard's growing distance and jealousy, masking his true feelings with exaggerated courtesy.

• “He had grown so dependent upon Donald that he could scarcely resist calling him in to consult. But by sheer self-coercion he refrained.”

  Henchard was so reliant on Farfrae that he almost asked for his advice, but forced himself not to.

  Illustrates Henchard's internal struggle between dependence and pride.

• “He'll be top-sawyer soon of you two, and carry all afore him.”

  Farfrae will soon surpass both of you and outdo everyone.

  A townsman's jocular prediction that Farfrae will rise above Henchard, which stings Henchard's pride.

• “Mr. Farfrae's time as my manager is drawing to a close—isn't it, Farfrae?”

  Henchard publicly states that Farfrae's employment with him is ending, seeking confirmation from Farfrae himself.

  A pivotal moment where Henchard's jealousy leads him to sever ties with Farfrae, despite his dependence on him.