"The Mayor of Casterbridge" is a novel by Thomas Hardy published in 1886. It tells the story of Michael Henchard, a man who, after a drunken night, sells his wife, Susan, and child at a fair. Years later, he becomes the mayor of the town of Casterbridge, but his past actions haunt him, leading to personal and professional turmoil. The novel explores themes of fate, regret, and the impact of choices. As Henchard's life unravels, he faces challenges from Donald Farfrae, a young man who becomes his rival. The story highlights the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of one's decisions.