symbolism in Hardy's 'Far from the madding crowd'

The first 200 words of this essay...

Symbolism in Hardy's 'Far from the madding crowd"

Hardy uses striking symbolism in the novel Far from the madding crowd to serve his purposes and attain the desired effects on the reader. The memorable descriptions of the great barn, the sword play and the storm-are all enriched with eloquent symbolism. It makes the events vivid before us and broadens the scope of the novel.

In the opening chapters, Gabriel spies on Bathsheba ridiculously from behind a hedge, commenting on her vanity. He beholds Bathsheba though a hole, tending her aunt's cows, in a bird's eye view. From the loopholes of his hut, he watches her engaging in tomboyish antics on her horse. All these symbolize Gabriel's limited view point and his candid nature. In chapter 2 ,, Hardy presents a magnificent description of Norcombe hill. The stately progress of the earth is contrasted to oak's special power of quiet energy. The innocent and helpless stirrings of the new-born lamb and the movements of the stars and the earth are contrasted to symbolize the frailty