The Woodlanders is set in the fictional village of Little Hintock and follows the life of Grace Melbury, a young woman educated beyond her station. Upon returning to her woodland village, she finds herself unable to marry her intended, Giles Winterborne. Her alternative choice proves disastrous, leading to a tale rich in vibrant characters, humor, pathos, and tragic irony. Hardy critiques the cruel indifference of the archaic legal system of his day and the tragic consequences of adherence to futile social and religious proprieties.