Under the Greenwood Tree is a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of rural life in the English countryside. Thomas Hardy's descriptive prose brings the village of Mellstock to life, depicting the simple joys and struggles of its inhabitants.

The story follows the members of the Mellstock church choir, particularly the young and charming Dick Dewy as he navigates love, friendship, and societal expectations. The relationships between the choir members are heartwarming and authentic, making the reader feel like a part of their close-knit community.

Hardy's portrayal of nature and the changing seasons adds a sense of nostalgia and melancholy to the novel, as the characters grapple with the encroaching industrialization of their rural way of life. The themes of tradition, progress, and the passage of time are skillfully woven throughout the narrative, creating a poignant and thought-provoking read.

Overall, Under the Greenwood Tree is a delightful and engaging novel that offers a glimpse into a bygone era and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Hardy's lyrical prose and rich characterizations make this a timeless classic that is sure to resonate with audiences both young and old.

Book Description:

This novel is subtitled The Mellstock Quire, A Rural Painting of the Dutch School. The Quire is the group of musicians who accompany the hymns at the local church and we follow the fortunes of one member, Dick Dewy, who falls in love with the new school mistress, Fancy Day. Another element of the book is the battle between the traditional musicians of the Quire and the local vicar, Parson Maybold, who installs a church organ. This battle illustrates the developing technology being introduced in the Victorian era and its threat to traditional country ways. The novel was published anonymously in 1872 and is often seen as Thomas Hardy’s most gentle and pastoral novel. In 2005 Under the Greenwood Tree was adapted for a television version by Ashley Pharoah.