Far From the Madding Crowd

Close study of a passage from chapter 46: The Gurgoyle

Chapter 47 of "Far From the Madding Crowd" is written in a dramatic

and sensationalist style, similar to the popular gothic novels of the

time. The language and literary techniques used are closely related to

this central theme of the passage. Hardy's novel was serialised there

is a build up to the final climatic chapter of each series. This

explains the increase in tension shown by the horrific description of

the gargoyle and the increasing velocity of the "liquid parabola" it

spouts into Fanny's grave. Increasing the readers' apprehension before

the final scene of series 10 in which Troy's "Adventures by the shore"

nearly result in his death.

Gothic tradition is highlighted in this scene by detailed description

of the church's architecture, for example the "exceptionally

prominent" gargoyles. Included in the church's decoration, as they had

become fashionable during the gothic revival. Also via figurative

language such as "like ingredients in a cauldron" which adds to the

gothic theme running through the passage by crating create an air of

the supernatural. Gargoyles' uses were two-fold; firstly they acted as

a drainage system, however more importantly their design was

"grotesque" as this was believed to frighten malevolent spirits, thus

acting as guardians. Therefore in this instance the gargoyle which

destroys all evidence of "Troy's Romanticism" acts as Fanny's

protector.

Also the church is an "erection of fourteenth-century date." In

addition to the moral and religious centre of the village, the

inhabitants of Weatherbury will have generations of relatives buried

within its grounds. Connecting it to each member of the village.

Therefore t...

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... dead by his own hand. Secondly it also allows the

characters of Weatherbury to in effect start over and recover from the

effects Troy had. Finally in chapter 53 the fact that Troy has left

only to return and blight Boldwood's plans again full the farmer's

anger giving him the courage to kill Troy.

In conclusion Hardy's style and literary techniques are characteristic

of the gothic novel. Imagery and figurative language are highly

prevent aspects, which emphasise each of his points as fully as

possible. Diction and vocabulary also contribute to the highly visual

impression formed by his reader. The passage also concludes the

relationship between Fanny and Troy, whilst completing "Fanny's

Revenge." Thus the novel is able to develop and new aspects can be

drawn into the narrative, without becoming overshadowed by the

domination of characters such as Troy.