About the book
Set in the farming country of Thomas Hardy's Wessex in rural southwest England, the novel follows Bathsheba Everdene, an independent young woman who arrives in Weatherbury to farm the biggest estate in the district. Her presence draws three very different men: the devoted shepherd Gabriel Oak, the reclusive gentleman-farmer William Boldwood and the dashing soldier Sergeant Frank Troy. Hardy sets their rivalry against the Wessex countryside and the often harsh realities of Victorian farm life, with themes of love, honour and betrayal. It was his fourth published novel and his first major success, first appearing anonymously as a serial in Cornhill Magazine, and John Schlesinger directed an Oscar-nominated film version.
Denise Morris Kipnis, founder of ChangeFlow Consulting, was struck by its strong female lead, who values independence above all in an era with few options for women. She rereads it as a reminder that feminism means being free to make choices.
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This book has 1 recommendation
Denise Morris Kipnis (Founder & Principal/ChangeFlow Consulting)
My undergraduate studies focused was on English literature and Communication. I developed an affinity for 18th Century literature, can’t really say why…This book struck me because of the strong female lead. In an era where there were few options for women, the lead character puts her independence above all else, uncompromisingly. I reread it when I need reminding that feminism means being able to make choices, especially unconventional ones.
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