Far from the Madding Crowd characters

Appears from the start

A young shepherd and newly established farmer whose patience, competence, and steady judgment contrast with his limited social confidence. He is struck by Bathsheba Everdene's independence and proposes to her before either knows the other well.

Appears from the start

A spirited, self-reliant young woman staying with her aunt when Gabriel first sees her. Proud of her freedom and conscious of her beauty, she refuses to treat marriage as necessary simply because a respectable man offers it.

First appears in chapter 11

A young servant connected with Bathsheba's uncle's farm who leaves Weatherbury in distress. She is devoted to a soldier, Sergeant Troy, and is trying to reach him so they can marry.

Also known as Farmer Boldwood

First appears in chapter 13

A reserved, prosperous farmer in Weatherbury whose grave manner and long bachelorhood make him seem almost untouched by romance. A thoughtless valentine from Bathsheba breaks through that reserve and gives him reason to believe she may welcome his attention.

Also known as Sergeant Troy

First appears in chapter 11

A handsome, eloquent cavalry sergeant promised to Fanny Robin. His charm, quick emotions, and appetite for display make a powerful first impression, though his conduct toward Fanny has already shown his unreliability.

First appears in chapter 9

Bathsheba's trusted maid and companion at Weatherbury. Practical, affectionate, and interested in local news, she listens to Bathsheba's private uncertainties and sometimes encourages her curiosity.

First appears in chapter 8

An experienced farm worker at Weatherbury, plain-spoken and sociable. He becomes one of Gabriel's closest companions among Bathsheba's employees and helps voice the community's practical view of events.

First appears in chapter 8

A timid, conscientious laborer on Bathsheba's farm, known among his companions for anxious speeches, modest drinking, and a tendency to become confused when required to speak formally.

First appears in chapter 8

The former bailiff on Bathsheba's inherited farm. His dishonest handling of grain leads her to dismiss him as she assumes direct control of the property.

First appears in chapter 10

A young laborer on Bathsheba's farm whose biblical first name is the result of a family christening mistake. He works among Coggan, Poorgrass, and the other Weatherbury men.

Also known as Bathsheba's aunt

First appears in chapter 2

Bathsheba's aunt, with whom Bathsheba is staying when Gabriel begins courting her. Her conversation with Gabriel contributes to a misunderstanding about whether Bathsheba already has other suitors.