At its heart, The Mayor of Casterbridge delves into the weight of both personal and shared history. In tackling social transformation, Hardy underscores the unavoidable influence of cultural history on the present. More importantly, he stresses the need to integrate, rather than escape, our personal past—and the potential costs of doing so. Henchard's journey in Casterbridge, from selling his family to gaining power and prestige, largely showcases his determination. However, the novel’s frequent coincidences remind us that his efforts to flee his past are only temporarily effective.

Susan and Elizabeth-Jane seek him out in Casterbridge after believing Newsom has died, coinciding with the height of Henchard's financial success. Their arrival also coincides with Farfrae's short visit, triggering a series of events that lead to Henchard's economic ruin. The old furmity-woman, arrested two decades later for causing public disturbance, is brought before Henchard on the very day he stands in for his successor as magistrate. Her memories of his past misdeeds reveal him, accelerating his downfall.