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- Reading time of the complete text: about 12 hours

- Reading time of the summarized text: about 1 hour

"The Woodlanders" is a novel by Thomas Hardy set in a woodland village called Little Hintock between 1856 and 1858. The plot revolves around the woodsman Giles Winterborne's efforts to marry his childhood sweetheart, Grace Melbury, who is discouraged from marrying him by her father. The story involves betrayal, infidelity, and unrequited love, leading to tragic and unhappy endings for the characters. The novel is classified as one of Hardy's major works, despite being an anomaly compared to his other tragic novels. It reflects common Hardy themes such as poorly chosen marriage partners, unrequited love, and social class mobility. The portrayal of sexual morality in the novel led to controversy, as it openly acknowledges sexual and marital infidelity. "The Woodlanders" was widely praised upon its release and remains a personal favorite of Hardy. It has been adapted into plays, films, and musical settings, showcasing its enduring popularity and influence.