Patience makes Mr. Oak the vital force to tame the young mistress
Carey Mulligan has been nominated for another Oscar in her role as Cassie in “Promising Young Woman.” As an avid fan of her period-piece films, I decided that rather than go the cliche route of talking about an Oscar-nominated film for best director, best actress, best film, etc. I’d go for the lesser-known diamond in the rough film starring Mulligan, “Far from the Madding Crowd.”
Though the film is still relatively new, few people know of it. For those without the pleasure of seeing the film, “Far from the Madding Crowd” is about, “A headstrong Victorian beauty (Carey Mulligan) has her choice of three different suitors: a sheep farmer (Matthias Schoenaerts), a dashing soldier (Tom Sturridge) and a prosperous, older bachelor (Michael Sheen)” according to Rotten Tomatoes.
With a score of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s odd how the film is so underrated in romance film circles. Yet here I am, arguing that not only is it an excellent film, it also is a virtuous one at that.
Today’s virtuous discussion is on patience, as shown in the character of Mr. Oak. As the synopsis suggests, Mulligan’s character, Miss Everdene, is being courted by three suitors. Mr. Oak is the first one the audience is introduced to, and he is also the first to propose marriage to Miss Everdene. Although she declines the offer, feeling no need for a husband, he remains steadfast.
Not only is Mr. Oak level-headed, handsome, and soft-spoken, he also has a certain “je ne sais quoi.” That, “je ne sais quoi,” after reflection, I’ve named patience. Be wary; spoilers are soon to follow.
The University of Arkansas published an article by Professor Irene McMullin, in which she went in-depth about how, “patience is the heart of ethics.” Such a statement was backed with well-researched philosophical underpinnings.
McMullin explained that “The self-restraint specific to patience is specifically oriented to the other person’s “agency” or ability to act….This type of attitude involves both a willingness to share one’s time with the other person and an acknowledgement of the limits of human agency.”
Although Miss Everdene turns down Mr. Oak, it’s evident throughout the film that the pair have undeniable chemistry. Mr. Oak ends up working for Miss Everdene as the head farmer for her newly inherited farm. The position means that Miss Everdene has power over him, yet his character does not shift.
Mr. Oak both acknowledges the limitations of his current position and continues sharing time with Miss Everdene. Never does he let their previous romantic entanglement get in the way of their work with one another.
These acts showcase that Mr. Oak is a different breed of men, especially given the 1800s time period in which the film was made. Men from that time period are categorized as power-seeking, and marriage to be a matter of property rather than love. Mr. Oak patiently waits for Miss Everdene to recognize their mutual affections.
Mr. Oak understands the struggle of power and of the many suitors vying for Miss Everdene’s affection. The daring maneuver given the circumstances is to remain steadfast, and the pair kiss as the sunsets and credits begin to roll as a result of his virtuous ethics.
The professor characterized patience as, paraphrasing; a hovering attentiveness, silent co-willingness, and an expressive encouragement and recognition of a person’s needs. Being aware of said concepts, a person then must utilize the virtue of patience.
Mr. Oak is one example of attentiveness, understanding, and holding back rather than acting. Not out of tolerance, but out of patience.
Patience is not something that people often speak about in today’s world, especially outside of religious circles. Yet, it is something we must continue to strive for and instill in our beings. For Mr. Oak, he ended up being with the one that he loved. For us, in modern and non-fiction real life, it could be the pathway to peace of mind in our chaotic world.
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