Lucetta arrives in Casterbridge, fearing that the letters she once exchanged with Henchard might ruin her reputation. Meanwhile, Farfrae’s business flourishes, earning him more popularity than Henchard. Though Lucetta initially intends to honor her past promise to Henchard, she ultimately falls for Farfrae instead. Henchard’s jealousy deepens as he watches Farfrae surpass him both professionally and socially. The townspeople begin favoring Farfrae, leaving Henchard increasingly isolated. As his business collapses, Henchard desperately tries to reclaim his position but only makes matters worse. When Lucetta and Farfrae marry, Henchard’s fury escalates. Eventually, Lucetta’s past affair with Henchard is exposed to the public, bringing her shame and disgrace. The humiliation overwhelms her, and she dies suddenly from shock and stress.
