The Warden

The 1850s in the Cathedral Town of Barchester. The Warden is Septimus Harding, Warden of the Almshouses in Barchester. His gentle existence is threatened when a reformer, John Bold, launches a campaign to expose what he sees as the unfairness of the comfortable living enjoyed by the Warden – he believes it is financed by income that should go to the residents of the Almshouses.

The indomitable Archdeacon Grantly is determined to fight the case, confident in his success, and advises the Warden to stand his ground.

The case causes repercussions for everyone, including Harding’s two daughters – one of whom is married to the Archdeacon, whilst the younger is in love with Bold.