The central theme of The Mayor of Casterbridge focuses on the lasting influence of the past. While not everyone carries a secret as profound as Henchard's, many people desire to change, forget, or escape certain parts of their history. After the opening scenes, Henchard seems to accomplish the impossible. Following a desperate search for Susan and Elizabeth-Jane, he reintegrates into his life with notable success. Within just two decades, he establishes himself in the small town of Casterbridge, becomes its leading grain merchant, is elected to the town council, rises to the position of mayor, and serves the community as a churchwarden.