Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 55 summary
Chapter 55 of 57 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 55, Boldwood receives a death sentence, but hidden gifts intended for Bathsheba strengthen the belief that his actions arise from mental illness and prompt a petition for mercy. After an anxious wait, Laban brings news that Boldwood escapes execution and faces confinement instead.
What happens
- Weatherbury men watch a judge arrive, then agree to avoid the trial so their presence does not distress Boldwood.
- A locked closet reveals expensive gifts labeled for Bathsheba as Boldwood’s wife, with dates six years ahead.
- Oak reports Boldwood’s guilty plea and death sentence, while the discovery strengthens public belief in his mental illness.
- A petition seeks reconsideration, but Oak returns from a farewell visit without news as the execution approaches.
- Laban rides to town and returns with word that Boldwood faces confinement rather than death.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The news resolves the immediate threat of execution. Boldwood survives, but the length of his confinement remains unspecified.
Quick check
What date appears on each package found in Boldwood’s closet?
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