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Far From the Madding Crowd Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • Thomas Gray, Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard (Title of book)
  • John Milton, Paradise Lost (2.22)
  • William Shakespeare, Macbeth (4.3)
  • William Shakespeare, Hamlet (22.22)
  • William Shakespeare, The Tempest (47.4)

Historical References

  • Napoleon Bonaparte (5.12)
  • Christopher Columbus (14.3)

Pop Culture References

  • "The Girl I Left Behind Me" (Popular Old Song) (10.74)