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Under the Greenwood Tree

The Mellstock Choir - A Rural Painting of the Dutch School

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Under the Greenwood Tree

By: Thomas Hardy
Narrated by: Jamie Parker
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Summary

Under the Greenwood Tree is an affectionate and youthful portrait of a world Hardy knew well - village life in 'Wessex' - in which a romantic tale is set against changing circumstances. The traditional feature of local music making performed by the village band and choir is challenged by the modern innovation of organ and organist providing music in the church. Fancy Day, the new, comely school mistress is also an accomplished organist, and these qualities create conflict in the village, especially when the unmarried young vicar and Dick Dewy, a member of the Mellstock parish choir vie for her attention. In this, only his second novel, Hardy presents one of his most gentle and charming pictures.

Public Domain (P)2014 Naxos AudioBooks Drama & Plays European World Literature Village
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I had tried (and failed) to complete this book with another audible reader, but am delighted to have found Parker's version. His characters have consistent voices, he never mixes them up and, what is more, their voices closely reflect their personality, age and tone (e.g. Parker's gentle Grandfather William is someone I'd have loved to meet!)

The novel interweaves two themes: the "love square" of Fancy Day and her three suitors, and the ushering out of old traditions in rural England. Hardy does this with reference to the natural landscape and the seasons (this shapes the novel's structure) while keeping the narrative tone light with plenty of humour. Because rustic dialogue forms a substantial portion of the book, it takes a good narrator to bring this aspect to life and give it its due. I would have missed so much if I had not had this audio version of "Under the Greenwood Tree"!

Jamie Parker's narration is one of the best ...

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Under the Greenwood Tree is unlike the other Thomas Hardy novels I have read. It is a charming and funny portrait of life in a small village. It starts following the members of the village choir but soon transforms into a love story. There is no great drama or impending doom, just pleasant rural life and the trials of the heart. It is a very pleasant and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny diversion from modern life.

I have listened to Robert Hardy's reading and this reading by Jamie Parker. I prefer this version which feels "lighter" and brings out the amusement in the tale more effectively.

Charming and funny and wonderfully read

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Jamie Parker has got to the essence of this very funny book. His voices are superb.

Superbly read

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A charming tale of young love in Hardy"s Wessex,which I enjoyed listening to, having read the novel a couple of times at different ages. The narrator was excellent - interesting to listen to, and capturing the personalities of the characters well in the voices he gave to each of them. Although some dismiss this short novel as merely a forerunner of Hardy's later novels, I enjoy the amusing observations of manners and characters, particularly the villagers' opinions on the new vicar! A thoroughly enjoyable listen!

The course of true love never did run smooth!

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Jamie Parker should narrate all Thomas Hardy audio Books he brings characters to life .

Fantastic Narrator

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