Investigate contemporary techniques for raising sheep and create a chart to compare them with the methods depicted in the novel.

Locate a recording of pastoral flute music, similar to what Gabriel Oak might have played, and share it with your class, including an explanation of its historical background.

Thomas Hardy stopped writing novels due to public backlash over the sexual content in his works. Imagine how the story might have unfolded if Fanny Robin had not been pregnant with Sergeant Troy’s child at the time of her death. Would Troy have remained with Bathsheba after Fanny’s passing, and if so, how would their relationship have developed? Write a brief play featuring their conversation following Fanny’s funeral.

Many readers are surprised to learn that people exchanged valentines in the 1870s. Research the history of Valentine’s Day and present the various customs associated with it over time.