The Mayor of Casterbridge Chapters 16-20 Quiz

Table of Contents

Brief Summary of The Mayor of Casterbridge (Chapters 16–20)

In Chapter 16, Henchard plans a grand public festival, expecting it to surpass Farfrae’s event. However, heavy rain ruins his celebration, while Farfrae’s dance, held under borrowed rick-cloths, becomes a success. Humiliated and angry, Henchard rashly announces that Farfrae’s term as his manager is ending.

In Chapter 17, Farfrae starts his own business, initially avoiding competition with Henchard. However, Henchard sees him as an enemy and starts a price war. Meanwhile, Elizabeth-Jane and Farfrae develop feelings for each other, but Henchard forbids their relationship.

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In Chapter 18, Susan falls gravely ill. Before dying, she writes a letter to Henchard, instructing him to open it on Elizabeth-Jane’s wedding day. At the same time, a mysterious woman named Lucetta sends a letter to Henchard, asking him to return old love letters.

In Chapter 19, after Susan’s death, Henchard tells Elizabeth-Jane that he is her real father. She happily accepts him, but later, he accidentally reads Susan’s letter and discovers that Elizabeth-Jane is actually Newson’s daughter. Devastated, he becomes cold toward her.

In Chapter 20, Henchard grows distant and critical of Elizabeth-Jane. Meanwhile, a kind lady, who is later revealed to be Lucetta, offers Elizabeth-Jane companionship at High-Place Hall, which she joyfully accepts.

Chapter	Summary
16	Henchard’s festival fails, while Farfrae’s event succeeds, increasing Henchard’s jealousy.
17	Farfrae starts his business; Henchard sees him as a rival and forbids Elizabeth-Jane from meeting him.
18	Susan falls ill and dies, leaving a letter for Henchard. Lucetta also sends a letter, but she does not arrive.
19	Henchard tells Elizabeth-Jane he is her father, but later discovers she is actually Newson’s daughter.
20	Henchard becomes distant from Elizabeth-Jane. She meets Lucetta, who offers her companionship.