In typical tragic narratives, as seen in Hardy's The Mayor of Casterbridge, just when Henchard's fortunes reach their peak, the elements leading to his ruin are already at play. His former wife, under the impression that her sailor husband has died, brings their daughter to Casterbridge after hearing rumors of his presence there. To her joy, she finds that he has become a well-respected figure. On the cusp of reuniting with his long-lost family, Henchard extends his affection to a clever young Scotsman named Donald Farfrae, whom he takes under his wing as a protege, confidant, and in some ways, a surrogate son. However, as the narrative progresses, Henchard and Farfrae transform into rivals—first in business, then in civic affairs, and ultimately in matters of the heart. As Henchard's downfall becomes unavoidable, he challenges Farfrae to a wrestling match, deliberately tying one arm to neutralize his advantage in physical strength.