Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 37 summary
Chapter 37 of 57 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 37, Gabriel protects the uncovered corn stacks during a dangerous thunderstorm, and Bathsheba joins him while her husband and the others sleep drunkenly in the barn. Their shared danger brings a personal confession: she explains that jealousy and confusion drive her marriage to Troy, before a wind shift threatens rain.
What happens
- Gabriel stays on the stack despite the lightning and connects his iron rod to a grounded chain for protection.
- Bathsheba arrives, asks about her husband, and carries reed sheaves up the ladder to help Gabriel.
- Lightning passes down Gabriel’s rod and chain, then splits a nearby tree, forcing both workers to descend.
- They find the barn dark and hear snores, then return to thatching.
- Bathsheba explains that she goes to Bath to end her engagement but marries Troy after he provokes her jealousy.
- Bathsheba leaves at Gabriel’s urging, and he continues working until the weather vane signals a threatening wind change.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Bathsheba identifies the feelings behind her sudden marriage. Her explanation corrects Gabriel’s belief that she leaves home intending to marry.
Quick check
Why does Bathsheba say she originally goes to Bath?
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