The novel is set in the fictional village of Mellstock and follows the lives of the local choir members, especially young Dick Dewy. When the new schoolmistress, Fancy Day, arrives, Dick falls in love with her. However, Fancy is also courted by others, including the new vicar who wants to replace the traditional choir with an organ. After some misunderstandings and romantic tensions, Fancy chooses Dick, and they marry under the symbolic greenwood tree. The story highlights themes of tradition vs. change, love, and rural village life.