Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 53 summary
Chapter 53 of 57 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 53, Bathsheba reluctantly promises to marry Boldwood in six years, while workers confirm that Troy is alive but fail to warn her. Troy enters the party and forcibly claims her; Boldwood shoots him, attempts to shoot himself, and leaves after Samway prevents the second shot from striking him.
What happens
- Workers discuss reports that Troy is alive, overhear Boldwood’s longing for Bathsheba, and see her arrive.
- Samway, Tall, and Smallbury spot Troy outside the malt-house, but their efforts to warn Bathsheba fail.
- Under Boldwood’s pressure, Bathsheba promises marriage in six years and agrees to wear his ring for the night.
- Troy enters the gathering, demands that Bathsheba accompany him, and seizes her arm when she remains motionless.
- Bathsheba screams, and Boldwood takes a gun from the rack and shoots Troy, who falls and lies still.
- Samway deflects Boldwood’s attempted suicide shot; Boldwood kisses Bathsheba’s hand and leaves without anyone stopping him.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Far from the Madding Crowd, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Bathsheba treats the promise as an obligation rather than an expression of love. Her condition also makes uncertainty about Troy central to the agreement.
Quick check
How does Samway prevent Boldwood from shooting himself?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Far from the Madding Crowd, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
