This wonderful, yet troubling, story depicts the society of nineteenth century England, ruled by strictured and defined roles for women in a world run by men. Choices for women were extremely limited ~ marriage or living alone outside of society with economic situations often the tipping point for any decisions. Carey Mulligan, in the role of Bathsheba Everdene, has these choices foisted upon her. However, she has inherited a working farm and her independent spirit allows her to become it’s mistress. Her economic status not in question, she would seem to be free of the rules of the day. Women were expected to be humble and quiet, not independent and foreward looking. Matthias Schoenaerts, as Farmer Oak, a strong and silent land and livestock owner, has a reverse of his own fortunes ultimately becoming a shepherd for Mistress Everdene. The two other men in her life were Michael Sheen as the wealthy Mr. Boldwood and Tom Sturridge as Sergeant Troy. As a viewer, I did feel angry with Bathsheba as she wavered in her affections for these three men until I remembered the social mores of the day.
Originally a series of short stories in Cornhill Magazine, Far from The Madding Crowd, by Thomas Hardy, was published on Nov. 23, 1874. He made at least two revisions over the next six years. Since then it has been rewritten into plays and movies, including his own stage adaptation written in 1882. The first movie adaptation was in 1915. Now, 100 years later, a new and very romantic adaptation is on the screen.
“I hate to be thought men’s property in that way
though possibly I shall be had some day.”
~ spoken by Bathsheba Everdene
Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
Directed by Thomas Vinterberg
Partial Cast:
Carey Mulligan as Bathsheba Everdene
Matthias Schoenaerts as Farmer Oak
Michael Sheen as Mr. Boldwood
Tom Sturridge as Sergeant Troy
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