Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 41 summary
Chapter 41 of 57 · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 41, Bathsheba gives Troy money but discovers that he keeps another woman’s hair, exposing his attachment and deepening their quarrel. When she learns of Fanny Robin’s death, she arranges to collect the body, while details about Fanny’s journey, golden hair, and soldier lover sharpen her suspicions.
What happens
- Troy asks for twenty pounds, denies needing it for racing debts, and receives money intended for household expenses.
- Bathsheba sees a curl inside his watch, and Troy admits it belongs to a woman he once intended to marry.
- Their quarrel leaves Bathsheba distressed by her lost independence, and Troy departs for Casterbridge before their usual breakfast.
- Joseph Poorgrass reports Fanny Robin’s death, and Bathsheba takes responsibility for collecting her body with flowers and a clean wagon.
- Fanny’s passage through Weatherbury on Saturday night makes Bathsheba question Joseph about her hair and the cause of death.
- Liddy confirms Fanny’s golden hair and repeats Troy’s suggestive remarks about her soldier lover, until Bathsheba stops her.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Bathsheba lowers her hopes from complete devotion to basic kindness. The admission measures how far the marriage falls below her expectations.
Quick check
What does Liddy confirm about Fanny Robin?
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