The Rent Day is a classic example of a Victorian, working-class, agrarian melodrama. Tenant farmers work the land on the Grantley estate, which has recently been inherited by young Robert Grantley. Grantley has not yet visited his estate, and the land is governed by Crumbs, a steward with a buried secret. Martin Heywood has also recently inherited, but his tenant farm is struggling and he cannot afford to pay the annual rent. Despite his pleas and the danger of making his young family homeless, Crumbs shows no pity and makes plans to have the farm repossessed. As Martin’s situation grows more desperate, his wife’s virtue is threatened on multiple occasions and the bailiffs arrive to appraise his family home. However, the arrival of a stranger on the Grantley estate and the financial foresight of his late grandfather, may offer the solution to all his problems! The Rent Day is Victorian melodrama at its best, with plenty of opportunities for strong character roles.
The Rent Day guide sections
