How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
An expostulation followed, but it was indistinct; and it became lost amid a low peal of laughter, which was hardly distinguishable form the gurgle of the tiny whirlpools outside. (11.66)
When Bathsheba announces that she'll run her own farm, there is a commotion among the workmen. Some think it's funny; while others are angry at the thought of having to answer to a woman in the daily work.
Quote #8
"A head-strong maid—that's what she is—and won't listen to no advice at all. Pride and vanity have ruined many a cobbler's dog." (15.24)
The workmen can't go complaining about Bathsheba right in front of her. But once they go to the pub after the workday is over, they tend to vent all of their frustration at having to work for a woman. They compare her to a dog, which is a polite Victorian-era way of calling her a b*tch.
Quote #9
Women are never tired of bewailing man's fickleness in love, but they only seem to snub his constancy. (24.1)
Throughout this book, Hardy's narrator likes to make some nice sweeping generalizations about women. In this case, he mentions the hypocrisy of the fact that women always seem to complain about men being promiscuous and non-committing. But then they go and turn away the first dude who actually shows them loyalty and commitment. Hmm. Was Thomas Hardy a Nice Guy?