The Portrayal of Gabriel Oak in Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Ha

In the novel Far from the Madding Crowd written by Thomas Hardy, I will be observing in feature the main character, Gabriel Oak, a young sheep farmer. I am going to determine how he is described as a heroic character in the world-class seven chapters. Gabriel Oak is portrayed to the reader as a heroic character in several different ways. In chapter one, there is no exercise or events. Alternatively, in the first paragraph, there is a description of Oak, which is mainly focused on his broad smile. His smile is compared using a simile, like the rays in a rudimentary sketch of the rising sun. This immediately implies that he is a cheerful, well behaved-natured character. Secondly, he is referred to with some different names. Farmer Oak illustrates his status, respect and authority. His Christian name, Gabriel has a reference towards the bible, as Gabriel was the good angel of God. Lastly, his surname, Oak, this may refer to wood as Oak is strong an d durable which may represent his strength and durability. This is stressing the plus quality of Oaks character. The reader starts to get an encouraging image of Gabriel once reading the first two paragraphs. Farmer Oaks background is rather straightforward although he has had many jobs. He is conscientious and thorough as he cares greatly on how everything is presented and what people think of him. He was firstly a shepherd and then a bailiff before becoming a farmer. His father was a shepherd, so he had grown up on a farm learning the skills required from his dad. Moreover, the robes Gabriel wore were not pretentious. I know this because on his working days he wore his clothes ... ...ently told everybody what had to be done to help and soon the fire was under control. Without Gabriels good sense and bravery the fire would have been unmanageable. Oaks courage was admired by all of the spectators and many compliments soon spread through the crowd. On ce Gabriel had tack out that Bathsheba was in need of a shepherd, he was not too modest to ask her. He did not let what happened in the past rear his decision in asking her for a job and did not seem embarrassed. This delivers his respect towards people and shows that he is a highly regarded man. All these positive qualities show that Gabriel Oak is a reputable man and is willing to help anyone, even if he does not know them. It shows that he is courageous and not a proud man. All of which portray to the reader that Gabriel Oak is a heroic character.