Should there be only 1 day a year to celebrate love (in all its shapes and forms), as Valentine’s Day would have us believe?
If not, can we learn how to show love better – every day of the year – from classic literature?
You might be too nice to tell me “No” to my face, but deep down think nineteenth century Victorian books such as “Jane Eyre” are… well, too Victorian to teach anything remotely practical or applicable to our ever-evolving times. Love included.
Point and no offence taken.
Yet I aim to use my extensive experience as an English teacher to unashamedly claim that the lessons on self-awareness, authenticity, and passion embedded in said piece of fiction ARE for the 21st century. For all times, in fact.
Reader, whether you deem my claim well substantiated by the end of this blog post will be your call. I can only hope that you do.
Needless to say, spoilers ahead.
If you’re curious about my other favorite books (if only to see if yours are among them), check out my related post.
What Is “Jane Eyre” About?
An orphan taken in by a resentful aunt, Jane has to deal with unfairness early on. When sent to a physically and metaphorically cold boarding school, the girl meets and soon loses her only friend Helen.
The opportunity to work in a mysterious manor (Thornfield Hall) as a governess then arises. What awaits is love + suffering as young Jane falls for the master of the house (Mr. Rochester) in what she believes is an unrequited manner.
Except it’s not.
In pure telenovela fashion, on their wedding ceremony day, Jane discovers that Rochester is already married to a madwoman (Bertha Mason) he keeps in the attic. Naturally, more suffering follows.
Jane flees and finds refuge in a home that turns out to be her relatives’: 2 female cousins and 1 male one (St John), who wants to whisk Jane all the way to India.
But Jane Eyre is a creature of independent will. After 10 months spent teaching in a village school and trying to build a new life for herself, she returns to Thornfield Hall, finding Rochester wifeless and wounded by the fire that killed his spouse.
She famously decides to marry him.
Who Wrote “Jane Eyre”?
The novel was written in 1847 by Charlotte Brontë, 1 of 4 super talented siblings. Between you and me, the MOST talented. 😉
The first principle you learn as a creative writing student is to write what you know. That’s exactly what Charlotte did. She heavily drew on the time spent in Brussels – learning French and holding a candle for her happily married tutor (Christopher Héger).
Nothing came of it and what happened next is too sad to get into. So I won’t get into it.
What’s important is that Charlotte Brontë’s literary legacy lives on and that, in “Jane Eyre,” the protagonist is fiercely loved back.
What Is the Best Adaptation of “Jane Eyre”?
“Jane Eyre” has been adapted to death.
There’s an overwhelming number of books inspired by the original; Goodreads lists 47!
My absolute favorite adaptation is the 4-episode BBC 2006 show, starring Toby Stephens (Little known fact: he’s Maggie Smith’s son!) and Ruth Wilson.
Here’s 1 of the trailers:
Lessons from “Jane Eyre”
The lessons below come from what I’ve learned as a teacher, beliefs about love and live, and my observations as an empath (someone sensitive to the emotions of nearby people). Here’s a video where I talk in more detail about what this type of sensitivity means:
As always, you don’t have to agree with me. The mere fact that I’m writing this makes me happy as it’s very Jane Eyresque. She wasn’t one to be afraid to stand by what she believed in.
Lesson 1: Everyone Operates from the Level of Consciousness They Are at.
Remember Jane’s aunt, who punishes her every chance she gets and casts her away as if she’s nothing?
It’s sooooo easy to judge her, isn’t it? To demonize Mrs. Reed is to do the obvious. Is it right though?
Yes, she was unjustifiably unkind to Jane. And yes, she robbed her of an early chance to be wealthy (not that Jane wanted that) and independent (that would’ve actually been nice).
Nonetheless, she couldn’t rob Jane of her self respect. Plus, I like to think that Mrs. Reed didn’t know better. Her level of consciousness didn’t allow her to see Jane for what she truly was and to offer her the love she deserved.
Prior to her death, Mrs. Reed realizes this and is as repentful as her awareness permits. This proves more than enough for Jane, who readily forgives her.
We can’t expect anyone to act based on what they’re not aware of. Yet (more on the power of “yet” in my “How to Overcome Learning Limiting Beliefs” post).
Lesson 2: People Can Change.
Aah… the eternal debate. Are people capable of change or is human nature immutable?
Thanks to “Jane Eyre,” I’m able to argue that a leopard can change its spots.
Jane Eyre herself changes a great deal. Before fellow fans blame me for missing the book’s whole point (the value of remaining true to your values no matter what, as Jane does), let me explain.
Jane leaves Mr. Rochester because she’s been lied to and knows she can’t have the life she wanted with him. This is Thornfield Jane not compromising on who she was at the time.
She then embarks on a new stage of life, teaches on her terms, and enjoys family time. St John Eyre Rivers trains her for missionary work and she initially obeys, letting her religious background take charge.
Until she doesn’t.
When St John pressures Jane into giving him an answer to his proposal, she supernaturally hears Rochester’s voice. For my money, this isn’t a deus ex machina moment – an outside solution that miraculously saves Jane. Rather, she hears Rochester’s calls as a reflection of her conviction that she can’t marry someone she doesn’t love, that she can’t sacrifice her life even for a good cause (as deemed by her contemporaries – from our modern perspective, not so much). That she wishes to be with Edward Rochester after all.
This is when Jane 2.0 emerges, like a butterfly from a cocoon.
For all she knows (we’re talking about the pre-phone, pre-internet, pre-social media age), Edward Rochester is still married, so still off-limits.
Or is he?
If the old Jane ran away and would rather have died than share Rochester, the new Jane runs toward him. The world’s judgment and her own inhibitions be damned, she will stay by his side.
See? People can change.
Lesson 3: Touch Is a Love Language of Its Own.
On to the steamy bits of the Victorian novel.
Believe me, I’ve had the debate. Heard the question more times than I wish it inflicted on anyone: Why can’t Jane have stayed after she found out there’s already a Mrs. Rochester living at Thornfield Hall?
It couldn’t be simpler, at least to me: Would you stay in a situation where you only have half of what you want, of what’s possible? Wouldn’t that be torture?
There’s no way Edward Fairfax Rochester wouldn’t have touched Jane and no way she wouldn’t have been with him. Subjecting herself to the limitation of a peck on the cheek on birthdays (Rochester’s ludicrous proposal) when that was far from her natural desires would not do.
Touch is an indispensable part of love.
Lesson 4: We Should Dare to Be Vulnerable.
This one’s about both protagonists.
If Jane had dared to tell Rochester how she felt earlier, she wouldn’t have gone through so much torment. She might not have had to watch him seemingly wooing the belle of the shire (Blanche Ingram) and making everyone believe he was to marry her.
But then again, if Jane hadn’t eventually reached the end of her tether, we wouldn’t have witnessed the magical “Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! I have as much soul as you, and full as much heart!” outburst. The (literary) loss would’ve been greater.
As far as Rochester’s concerned, I wonder whether Jane had stayed if he’d told her not only how he felt, but also what his situation was. For his own sake, not just hers. We all know the reason he felt imprisoned in his own home was the earth-shattering secret he kept for so long!
As uncomfortable as baring your soul might feel (and I’m the first to fear this), I think in the end it’s what we all want, from ourselves and others. Vulnerability is the foundation of meaningful relationships. Can one even begin in its absence?
Lesson 5: The Only People Who Can “Fix” Us Are Us.
When past trauma causes grave imbalance, it’s natural to reach out and expect someone who cares deeply about us to put our heart back together. To take away the sadness as best they can.
This is what Rochester, post-wedding fiasco, more or less begs Jane to do. That’s why he desperately wants her to stay.
Not by accident, Jane refuses.
Remember the scene in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” where Harry keeps waiting for his Dad to rescue him from having his soul sucked out? Yikes! There’s this disheartening moment when Harry realizes no one is coming. He needs to save himself. And he does.
Similarly, Edward Rochester understands he has to fix himself and he tries to in the months following Jane’s departure. It’s only after he works on himself that their relationship truly works.
What previously was unhealthy clinginess turns into a healthy feeling that allows for freedom and choice. Jane Eyre wouldn’t have it any other way.
Lesson 6: All You’ve Ever Known Can Be Your Worst Enemy.
What adjectives do you associate with St John?
Erudite? No doubt.
Determined? Scarily so.
Warm? Not so much. And that’s not because of natural coldness, but self-imposed coldness. When in love with the lovely Miss Rosamund, he represses his burning feelings as he doesn’t deem her strong enough to be a missionary’s wife. Bummer.
All St John ever knew and wanted was a path where he fulfilled God’s will in only 1 way. He wouldn’t acknowledge others, even at the risk of spending the rest of his life alone and misunderstood. Which he probably did.
CHOOSING to let go of the familiar, of beliefs that no longer align with who we’ve become cannot be a mistake. Especially if those old beliefs translate into living without love.
It’s okay to give ourselves permission to be happy. Scratch that. It’s okay to prioritize our happiness.
Lesson 7: The Strongest of Friendships Aren’t Necessarily the Longest.
Helen Burns is a tragic character. Yet she’s not remembered for her death. She’s remembered for her friendship to Jane. Helen gave her friend bread when she was hungry, warmed her friend when she was cold, believed (in) her friend when no one else would. Rochester knows how sacred this relationship will always be to the love of his life.
People can part ways for reasons that have nothing to do with each other. It’s not that they decide to stop keeping in touch (just like Helen leaving Jane Eyre wasn’t a decision). But they move to a different place, change careers, or start a family. That doesn’t mean the friendship is lost, or loses its importance. Through Helen Burns-like kindness and authenticity, someone may have an incredible impact on you even if they’re not around for long.
We should be grateful for whatever time we get to spend with those who show us tenderness and share insights that alter our life in the most unexpected ways. In the moment or later.
Lesson 8: Karma Exists. But It’s Not Why We Should Do What’s Right.
Mrs. Reed dies in disgrace, having lived long enough to see her spoiled son depart this world before her.
Jane Eyre goes from being poor to receiving her rightful inheritance, one that matches Rochester’s wealth.
Edward Rochester loses the use of his left hand and (temporarily) his eyesight in the fire that also burns his house down.
Some call this karma. For every action there’s a reaction, what goes around comes around, everyone eventually gets what they deserve, etc.
I suppose. But is that why we should do what’s right? For fear of the consequences if we don’t? That would be highly transactional. “I’ll be good so that life and other people are good to me.”
What’s wrong with doing what’s right simply because it’s what’s right?
Lesson 9: It’s Never Wrong to Show Your Passion.
On multiple occasions Jane Eyre gets criticized for being passionate: whether she adamantly defends herself against accusations of untruthfulness or refuses to love Rochester any less after he lied to her.
Jane is only herself when she is passionate. A scene in the book shows her excruciating struggle not to cry, to hide her passion. She doesn’t want Rochester to be aware of the hurt and jealousy she’s feeling. He knows though. Later on, he expresses his respect for the real Jane, the woman who called herself his equal and fearlessly said she loved him.
This is why the color I associate with Jane Eyre is not the gray of her initial dresses. But fiery red.
I remember a university paper I wrote, passionately emphasizing aspects of linguistics I found fascinating. The tutor’s feedback was an unnecessarily big question mark and a comment along the lines of “You should refrain from showing emotion here.” This made me so sad, almost ashamed that I expressed my feelings to begin with. Which was a big deal given that to this day, I’m shy.
Jane Eyre cured me of that though. I now insist on showing passion, especially in writing (hope you can feel it 😊). As a teacher, I reward it too.
Whatever your passion is (magic tricks, musical virtuosity, blindfolded archery, engineering ingenuity, etc.), don’t keep it to yourself. The world needs many more Jane Eyres, even in the 21st century.
Lesson 10: Earthly Beings Can Have Unearthly Connections.
Here comes the inescapable Rochester “cord” quote:
“It feels as though I had a string tied here under my left rib where my heart is, tightly knotted to you in a similar fashion. And when you go (…), with all that distance between us, I am afraid that this cord will be snapped, and I shall bleed inwardly.”
All you romantics will immediately link the remarkably straigthforward words to a lovey-dovey context. Fair enough.
But I’m of the opinion that you can have this type of bond with a friend, or a parent too. My Mum, for example, knows things that are happening in my life or that I’m feeling even if she’s thousands of miles away. For that I am thankful as it saves me the trouble of explaining complicated matters. She’s aware of them with or without an exchange of words.
Many people have similar bonds. I hope you’re one of them.
Lesson 11: Truthfulness Might Be the Most Appealing Thing About You.
When Rochester feels himself examined and bluntly asks Jane “Do you find me handsome?” she, to his delight, replies “No, sir.”
And she keeps doing that. She keeps telling the truth – without hesitation – even at times most others wouldn’t. When learning that Rochester wasn’t the unattached bachelor society thought him, Jane doesn’t try to make him believe she stopped loving him. On the contrary, she says she loves him “more than ever.” At the same time, she MUST leave him.
Compare this to Blanche Ingram’s self-serving flaterry, which the male protagonist sees straight through.
Nothing more off-putting than fakeness, and nothing more appealing than truthfulness.
Mind you, I’m not advocating the kind of honesty that’s borderline meanness. Rather, the kind that endears you to those equally truthful and who will not be offended when you speak your mind.
Lesson 12: You’ll Always Know What to Do – and Not to Do – If You Trust Yourself.
Many qualities are gained due to life experience. This inevitably teaches us about the best course of action in any given situation & the mistakes to avoid in the future – because we’ve already made them!
That’s certainly not young Jane’s case. Whatever life’s taught her by the time she meets Edward Rochester doesn’t prepare her for what’s the follow. Still, Jane Eyre is able to weather the most devastating of emotional storms and comes out on the other side stronger for it.
How?
She knows and trusts herself.
This prompts her to confront the scary Mr. Brocklehurst, when asked how to avoid burning in hell forever (OMG). She doesn’t tell him that she’ll be good (though she was) so as to eschew God’s wrath. Instead, she declares her intention to “keep in good health” and simply… “not die.” Ha-ha.
It’s also why Jane leaves Rochester, not even considering accepting half-measures.
Finally, it’s why she denies St John’s entitled marriage request, despite the fact that, on the face of it, his values aligned with hers.
If a little voice inside you tells you “yes” or “no” when you ponder what to do next (the way it told Ross not to marry Emily in Season 4 of “Friends”), do not ignore it. It isn’t just a Jane Eyre thing, it’s a universal human thing.
Lesson 13: Life Gives You What You Need, Not What You Want.
So far Jane comes across as this incredibily strong female character. Someone who can inspire all those about to give up when things get unbearably hard.
The truth is, Jane did have her low moments. And they were VERY LOW.
She was shattered into a million pieces when leaving Thornfield behind, with nowhere to go, no money, and no hope. She also chose isolation in the first instance and let pain take over completely.
No judgment there.
Life had something different in store for Jane, however. As she physically and emotionally recovered, she got to help more students, saw what it’s like to be part of a loving family, and came to know the Rochester-free version of herself. I’m not saying she forgot him (whether they could be together or not, she would always cherish the memory of him). But it wasn’t their time yet. Those experiences played a crucial role instead. They were needed for Jane to develop a deep appreciation for the aspects of life that weren’t connected to romantic warmth. Which she previously put on a pedestal.
So don’t focus on what life seems to refuse to offer you (we’ve all been there). This could be because you need (to learn) something else first.
Lesson 14: Conversational Quality Is an Indicator of Compatibility.
In his controversial book “A Higher Loyalty”, former FBI Director James Comey describes a conversation he had with former President Obama. There was a natural push and pull during it, each interlocutor asking and answering questions, pausing at the right times, and truly hearing each other.
Jane and Rochester’s conversations set the standard for any couple. Granted, the latter gets a little carried away with his stories… But the fact that he pours his heart out and doesn’t hesitate to show Jane his darker side while she listens non-judgmentally explains why they get so close so quickly. Why they mentally shake hands so effortlessly, as Rochester puts it. He also knows how to ask the right questions to draw Jane out. As time passes, they appear to not want to stop talking.
It’s very difficult to part ways with someone who gets you that easily. That you want to speak to forever.
Lesson 15: Letting Go Is Letting In.
This is a tough one to write about.
Jane didn’t want to let go of Rochester. But she had to. There was no way forward for them immediately after his deception.
That’s when the world opens up to Jane.
She finds out that she’s a survivor who can get a teaching job anywhere whilst building new meaningful connections – and, luckily, not having to worry about money.
So she doesn’t torture herself by imagining an impossible future with Rochester. She trusts that he’ll find his way out of pain as well.
Letting go is a lesson that a lot of movies teach (Spoiler alert no. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 🚨):
- “Twilight” (Bella and Edward let each other go at different times)
- “Titanic” (Jack lets Rose go so she can live a long, happy life)
- “Bruce Almighty” (Bruce realizes the error of his ways and lets Grace go)
- “Beauty and the Beast” (the Beast releases Belle despite knowing he’s going to lose his life)
- “Tangled” (Flynn / Eugene – yes, the name is Eugene – lets Rapunzel go by cutting her hair so she’s no longer exploitable).
Letting go WILL hurt like blazes. Much more than Rochester’s leg after his accident when meeting Jane.
Still, something is always let in when you let go. It could be love from that person (in the movies above, the lovers get to be together – in this realm of existence / the next) or renewed love for life and what it brings your way.
The caveat? Don’t predict the outcome when letting go. Let go because it’s what you or the other person needs. This might be the best way to show (not just say) that you want their happiness.
Lesson 16: Trying to Convince Someone of Your Value? You Shouldn’t Have to.
Rochester recognizes Jane’s uniqueness in 1 day. Heck, 1 evening. The sight of her literally knocks him off his horse.
She doesn’t need to do anything to convince him she’s special. He sees it, clearly, every moment he’s around her.
Have you ever found yourself attempting to open someone’s eyes to your qualities? Figuratively holding up a huge sign that advertizes them?
This might mean the person doesn’t see them in the first place. Or, sadly, doesn’t want to see them. Just like Mrs. Reed. Please don’t buy into the idea that they’ll come around based on you giving more and more of yourself. Of your time and affection.
Feelings should come naturally. That’s why persuading anyone to see your worth doesn’t work. It’s not something that can be controlled.
The good news? Your worth is there no matter what. It doesn’t depend on external factors in the slightest. Remember this and, above all, love yourself.
Lesson 17: Magic Happens in the Unknown.
Jane Eyre is traditionally considered an independent woman, always ready to apply for a post should things go wrong.
And the best things that happen in the story are a result of her spreading her wings.
Why not do the same if you feel stuck in the safe and familiar?
Lesson 18: Resentment Is Never the Answer.
Jane is wronged by her aunt, young cousins, the fanatical Mr. Brocklehurst, members of high society who look down on her, and Rochester himself.
How does she respond?
Apart from her 1-time lashing out at her cousin as a kid, there’s no retaliation, nor is there resentment.
Why?
Ultimately, because you can only be free when you don’t carry the burden of ill will toward someone who had ill will toward you. When you don’t let your days be characterized by bitterness. You might be right to stay in a state of anger – but IS IT ANY WAY TO LIVE?
I’ve just watched my school’s mind-blowing musical adaptation of “The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”. Blinded by his thirst for revenge, Sweeney Todd ends up killing a loooooooooooot of people who cross his path, including his beloved wife. She’s right in front of his eyes for ages and he doesn’t even recognize her until it’s too late. He almost offs his own daughter too! I think this is enough of a cautionary tale revenge-wise.
***Digression***: Kudos to my student Rocky Li for his unforgettable anxiety-free performance. You were born to play Anthony Hope.
In the words of MLK, which I’m sure Jane Eyre (and a man called Otto) would’ve agreed with, “darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Lesson 19: Teaching Is a Noble Profession. In Case You Doubted It.
I know this is both cheesy and subjective, but let’s ponder it from Jane’s perspective.
Teaching was not something to fall back on for her. It was a calling. Given her history, it was also a way to teach young minds the way she wasn’t taught. No threatening the children by telling them they’d be struck down where they stand should they displease God. No uncalled for harshness. No putting a stop to their questions and creativity.
You might also remember teachers who taught you the right way. As someone who finds being in the classroom tiring but highly rewarding, Jane Eyre is my go-to book when I need to remind myself of the lifelong influence a good teacher can have.
Lesson 20: “The Course of True Love Never Did Run Smooth.”
No better book than “Jane Eyre” to apply the Shakespearean words to.
Reading this novel is nerve-wrecking because the first person narrative keeps you in the dark as to what Rochester might be up to. He can’t help but keep Jane close, to the point where he almost seduces her after his bedroom catches on fire (a metaphor for passion if there ever was 1). We get a real sense of how much he cares.
Then why doesn’t he spell things out? Why does he pursue her 1 moment only to run or push her away the other? How very frustrating for Jane, who, on top of everything else, needs to learn to perceive herself as attractive!
All manner of obstacles prevent a happy Jane–Rochester union, forcing the lovers to decide whether to fight to be together.
They both do.
This is a choice that true love always involves.
Lesson 21: It’s Going to Be Alright. Despite All Odds.
Confession time: When I first read “Jane Eyre” I thought Rochester would die for sure. The impossibly strong feelings the protagonists had for each other seemed to ask for the sort of tragic ending that makes such an epic love story even more memorable. I braced myself for the moment my prediction came true, tensing up as I turned each page, only for it… not to happen. Come on!
This leads me to my final “Jane Eyre” lesson:
If you’ve been through a lot in life and feel like enough is enough when problem no. 152 presents itself, don’t assume it’s all heading toward a sad denouement (like me 💧). Don’t lose heart.
Believe that things are bound to get better instead. That the universe will troubleshoot the problem in a way that’s beyond imagining if you Just. Let. It. That it’s going to be alright irrespective of the misfortunes we all need to brave.
Disappointment is finite, but hope is infinite.
Here is the video playlist of these lessons if you’d rather watch than read:
Conclusion and Personal Experience
In a world that craves long-lasting love but has trouble finding it, where relationships often feel disposable, “Jane Eyre” reminds us of the rarity of finding a soulmate.
After re-reading this emotional rollercoaster of a book at key times since I was 14, I can say I’ve ultimately learned to remain steadfast in my pursuit of connections that are nothing short of authentic.
Thank you, Jane Eyre.
FAQs
1. What is the basic storyline of Jane Eyre?
Jane Eyre is orphaned at a young age and lives with her aunt, Mrs. Reed, at Gateshead Hall. She suffers abuse and neglect from her aunt and cousins until she’s sent away to Lowood School, a charity institution for orphaned girls.
While there, Jane befriends Helen Burns, who then dies. In spite of the harsh conditions, Jane excels academically and eventually becomes a teacher at the school.
Seeking independence next, Jane takes a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall, working for the mysterious Mr. Rochester. Despite their social class differences, Jane and Mr. Rochester form a deep emotional connection, leading to a blossoming romance.
However, Jane senses that there are dark secrets at Thornfield Hall. On the very day of her wedding, she learns of Mr. Rochester’s attempt to marry her while concealing his existing marriage to a madwoman called Bertha Mason. Heartbroken, Jane flees Thornfield and finds refuge with the Rivers family.
Whilst working as a teacher, Jane inherits a fortune from a long-lost relative. She returns to Thornfield to find Mr. Rochester, who has been left blinded and maimed by a fire caused by Bertha. They reconcile and marry.
The novel concludes with Jane and Mr. Rochester living in seclusion at Ferndean Manor, where they enjoy a peaceful and contented life together.
2. Why is Jane Eyre so important?
“Jane Eyre” is considered important for several reasons:
Literary Significance: As a classic work of English literature, “Jane Eyre” has stood the test of time, remaining popular and influential since its publication in 1847.
Feminist Approach: Jane Eyre is an independent female protagonist who defies societal norms and asserts her own agency. Her refusal to conform to the expectations of her time and insistence on pursuing equality resonate with modern readers.
Social Commentary: The novel offers a critique of Victorian society, exposing the injustices prevalent during the era. Through Jane Eyre’s experiences as a woman of lower social standing, the novel addresses issues such as class discrimination, gender roles, and the treatment of marginalized individuals.
Psychological Depth: “Jane Eyre” delves into the psychology of its characters, particularly its complex protagonist. Jane’s internal struggles, moral dilemmas, and emotional journey add depth and nuance to the narrative, making her a relatable and enduring literary figure.
Romanticism and Gothic Elements: The novel incorporates elements of both Romanticism and Gothic literature, blending themes of passion, mystery, and the supernatural. This combination of genres contributes to the novel’s appeal and its ability to captivate readers with its atmospheric setting and suspenseful plot.
3. Is Jane Eyre hard to read?
I won’t lie to you. “Jane Eyre” can be challenging due to its dense prose. The language is that of the Victorian era (more formal and verbose than contemporary writing). We’re talking lengthy descriptions, intricate sentence structures, and archaic vocabulary like “therewith.” 🤔
All this requires patience and concentration to fully grasp, but I’ve yet to meet a reader who didn’t find “Jane Eyre” to be a rewarding experience.
4. What is the point of Jane Eyre?
There are several, I reckon.
Jane Eyre wants to be seen for what she truly is, not what she lacks. Her not being wealthy doesn’t mean she’s inferior to the condescending John Reed or the snobbish Blanche Ingram.
Even after receiving her inheritance, Jane remains the epitome of genuineness. She shares what she has with her newly found family, rejects anything that is against her nature and eventually goes after what she wants (a happy life with Rochester).
It’s actually the quality of her love that Jane Eyre stands out the most for. The way she loves Rochester – whether near or far away from him, before knowing he’s married and after the revelation is made – fills you with hope that love really does conquer all.
About Rebeca Duriga
Well-versed teacher, passionate writer with Googleable work, Udemy instructor, and someone who can’t resist a good story. I’m here to infuse joy into your learning journey, be it improving English, tackling IELTS, overcoming limiting beliefs, or conquering uni assignments with a sprinkle of AI support. Need motivation and inspiration as a student, adult learner, wordsmith in the making? Look no further.
