Far from the Madding Crowd
By Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy is often relegated to the shelves of those either academically compelled or among the elite of fiction readers. This masterpiece, while not commonly known, weaves together romance, tragedy, and elements of Christian morality, possibly influenced by the concept of Karma. Today, Desi Readers will delve into whether this novel deserves your time. I’m Ravi, and here’s my take on this classic, which is in true Desi style.
The Romance: In “Far from the Madding Crowd,” Hardy presents a spectrum of romantic relationships. The purest form is seen between Gabriel Oak and Bathsheba Everdene. Oak’s love is selfless, devoid of ulterior motives, a beacon of genuine affection amidst the chaos of life. His unwavering support and desire for Bathsheba’s happiness, even at the cost of his own, paint a picture of love that is rare and admirable. Contrastingly, the romance between Boldwood and Bathsheba is more complex, marked by Boldwood’s obsession, which eventually turns fatal, showcasing how love can morph into something destructive when not reciprocated. Lastly, the relationship between Sergeant Troy and Bathsheba is portrayed as manipulative and superficial, driven by physical attraction and worldly gains, highlighting the darker side of romance where love is used as a tool for personal gain.
Feminism: Bathsheba Everdene stands out as a character ahead of her time, managing her uncle’s farm with a firm hand, often supported by her female aides. This portrayal of a woman in a position of power in the 19th century is significant. Bathsheba’s independence is not just about managing the farm but also about her personal choices, which sometimes come off as brash or unconventional. Her solo appearance at the market to sell grains, her decisions regarding her suitors, and her handling of farm affairs underline her as a symbol of early feminist ideals, challenging the norms of her era. While Gabriel Oak’s presence as a guide might suggest a traditional male support system, Bathsheba’s decisions and actions mark her as a figure of self-reliance and strength.
Happy Ending: One of the most satisfying aspects of “Far from the Madding Crowd” is its resolution. The narrative ties up in a manner that feels just and fulfilling. Gabriel Oak, the epitome of steadfast love and integrity, finally finds his happiness with Bathsheba, who recognises and reciprocates his affection after her tumultuous journey through love and loss. The story’s villains, like Troy, meet their due, ensuring a sense of poetic justice. This ending satisfies the reader’s desire for a happy conclusion and reinforces themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the enduring nature of true love.
Bollywood and Far From the Madding Crowd – An Analogy
Well, to begin with, here isn’t a direct, widely recognised adaptation or a movie in Bollywood that mirrors the exact storyline of “Far from the Madding Crowd.” However, if we look at thematic elements or character arcs, some general similarities can be drawn between the novel and certain Bollywood narratives:
- Rural Setting and Romance: Many Bollywood films, especially those from the 90s and early 2000s, have utilized rural settings for romantic narratives, much like Hardy’s novel. Films like “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” or “Hum Aapke Hain Koun..” might not directly adapt Hardy’s work but share a thematic similarity in their portrayal of love, tradition, and rural life.
- Example: The rural backdrop in “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” focused on love, family, and tradition, which could echo the pastoral romance of Hardy’s novel, though with very different cultural contexts and outcomes.
- Character Dynamics: The love triangle or multiple suitors for the female lead is a common trope in Bollywood. In “Far from the Madding Crowd,” Bathsheba Everdene has three suitors, each representing different aspects of love and life. This could be compared to:
- Example: “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” in which the lead female character, Anjali, navigates her feelings between two men, though the dynamics and resolution differ significantly from Hardy’s work.
- Themes of Independence and Feminism: Bathsheba’s character is noted for her independence, which might resonate with Bollywood heroines who challenge societal norms for women, like in “Queen” or “NH10.”
- Example: “Queen” features a woman who embarks on a solo journey after her wedding is called off, showcasing her growth and independence, somewhat akin to Bathsheba’s journey of self-discovery and managing her farm.
- Tragedy and Redemption: The elements of tragedy, betrayal, and redemption in Hardy’s novel echo many Bollywood narratives, where characters often face significant life challenges before finding resolution or redemption.
- Example: “Devdas” might not be directly comparable in the plot but shares themes of tragic love, societal pressures, and personal downfall, though with a much darker and less hopeful resolution than Hardy’s work.
While these comparisons are thematic rather than plot-specific, they highlight how universal themes of love, independence, and rural life can be found in both “Far from the Madding Crowd” and various Bollywood films. However, there’s no direct Bollywood adaptation or a movie that closely follows the novel’s storyline.
Conclusion: Reading “Far from the Madding Crowd” is not just an exercise in literary appreciation but an emotional journey through love, loss, and self-discovery. Hardy’s narrative, rich with character development and moral dilemmas, ensures that the novel does not feel long or tedious. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to explore the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit. Moreover, finishing this classic will enrich your literary experience and make for an impressive update on your social media, signalling your dive into the depths of classic literature.
Ravi for Desi Readers
