In the style of Thomas Hardy's literary classic. Barbara Everdene is pursued by three very different men: Gabriel Oak, a sheep farmer who is drawn to her by her alluring willfulness; Frank Troy, a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood, a wealthy and mature bachelor. It is through Bathsheba's choices and desires that this timeless novel addresses the nature of relationship and love-as well as the human potential to overcome difficulties through strength, determination, and endurance.