The Vicar of Wakefield endures much hardship after his eldest son leaves and his daughter, Olivia, elopes with Squire Wilmot. The squire arranges what he beieves to be a mock marriage to Olivia. When Olivia learns of this she leaves him. The Vicar searches for his daughter and eventually finds both his wayward children. Olivia's situation with Squire Wilmot is eventually rectified and the Vicar is at peace.