Far from the Madding Crowd (Educational Edition) characters

Appears from the start

A capable young sheep farmer whose modest prosperity is destroyed when an inexperienced dog drives his flock over a cliff. Patient, observant, and practical, he is immediately drawn to Bathsheba Everdene, but her refusal of his marriage proposal leaves him to rebuild his life as a hired shepherd.

Appears from the start

An independent, striking young woman whom Gabriel first notices travelling to her aunt's home. She enjoys her freedom and declines his proposal because she does not love him and has no wish to acquire a husband merely for security.

First appears in chapter 7

A frightened young servant whom Gabriel meets after arriving at Weatherbury. She is trying to reach the barracks at Casterbridge and is distressed about a private matter involving a soldier.

First appears in chapter 8

A genial farm worker and maltster's son at Weatherbury. Sociable and dependable, he welcomes Gabriel into the close-knit group of laborers and often serves as a practical intermediary between the household and the fields.

First appears in chapter 8

A modest, anxious laborer on Bathsheba's farm, known among his companions for gloomy forecasts and for becoming unusually talkative after drinking. His comic solemnity makes him a conspicuous member of the Weatherbury workforce.

First appears in chapter 8

An older and outspoken hand on Bathsheba's farm. He is skeptical of a young woman managing the business herself and voices the workers' concerns more bluntly than most of his companions.

Also known as Cainy Ball

First appears in chapter 8

A very young farm boy whose recent schooling gives him a little more book learning than some of the older hands. He works among Bathsheba's laborers and is readily teased by them.

First appears in chapter 9

Bathsheba's lively maid and confidante at the Weatherbury farmhouse. Curious, affectionate, and inclined to tease, she becomes the person with whom her mistress most readily discusses private feelings and local gossip.

First appears in chapter 10

The bailiff Bathsheba inherits with her uncle's farm. His dishonesty is reported to her soon after she takes control, making him an early test of her resolve to manage the property for herself.

First appears in chapter 12

A prosperous neighboring farmer with a grave, reserved manner. A confirmed bachelor who attracts local speculation while appearing indifferent to it, he becomes conspicuous to Bathsheba precisely because he alone pays her little attention at the corn market.

Also known as Sergeant Troy

First appears in chapter 24

A handsome cavalry sergeant whom Bathsheba encounters unexpectedly at night when his spur catches in her dress. Confident, polished, and boldly flirtatious, he addresses her with an ease that is unlike the restrained courtship she has known.