Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 50 summary
Chapter 50 of 57 · 21 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 50, Bathsheba attends the Greenhill sheep fair and unknowingly watches Troy perform, while he hides his identity to avoid her contempt and preserve his choices. When Pennyways writes a note revealing that her husband is present, Troy steals it through the tent canvas and privately approaches its writer.
What happens
- Gabriel, Boldwood’s shepherd, Cain Ball, and George bring the combined flocks to Greenhill, where trading and entertainment fill the hilltop.
- Troy’s travels and circus employment explain his presence as a performer who remains uncertain about returning to Bathsheba.
- Boldwood finds Bathsheba a prominent seat, and Troy performs silently in disguise to prevent her recognizing him.
- During the evening performance, Pennyways studies Troy, who then searches for him and discovers Bathsheba taking tea with Boldwood.
- Pennyways gives Bathsheba a written warning about Troy, but Troy snatches it through the canvas before she reads it.
- Bystanders mistake the incident for attempted theft, while Troy finds Pennyways and leaves with him after a whispered exchange.
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In this chapter
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Why does Troy refuse to speak during Bathsheba’s visit to the performance?
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