book review of jane eyre by charlotte bronte

By Charlotte Brontë

‘Jane Eyre’ by Charlotte Brontë is a pure masterwork of an English classic that still lives its relevance in today’s society despite having been around for more than a century and a half.

About the Book

Article written by Victor Onuorah

Degree in Journalism from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

‘ Jane Eyre ’ proved a blockbuster following its 1847 publication as it became a book that gave voice to the voiceless, resilience to the weak, and spirit of honest activism to the seemingly lesser gender. Through Charlotte Brontë’s bestseller , there was an awakening in the urgency to tackle gender-related issues by society.

A Descriptive Tale on a Search for True Purpose

‘ Jane Eyre ’ by Charlotte Brontë is one of the most remarkably written classics I’ve read. The book is enriched with a touching story of a plain English country girl who is forced to endure a harsh childhood being an orphan and taken in under the guidance of her maltreating aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her bullish children.

From the get-go, Jane seems to be the only character in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ’ who seeks something much more than the mere routines of life, and she shows such desire from the first pages of the book – around when she’s young and about ten years old. Given Jane starts out being headstrong and a little sassy, I wouldn’t blame her too much because she’s just a smart and active little girl trying to protect herself over at Gateshead, a place where she’s surrounded by people who are supposed to be her family but are not.

Jane’s childhood rebellion, however, is never out of place. By rough estimation, those youthful angsts indicate her disagreement with her current life treated with biases and lies, and later, we see the extent of this mentality to society and the state of affairs therein. Jane is, by description, a self-reformer interested in finding that one true purpose in life.

She learns tremendously through life – and in all necessary disciplines enough to refine herself into the person she wants to be. Morals and values through religion. People relations and handling skills through experiences with terrible and as well good and kind people she’s met. In the end, Jane will pick bits and pieces of the core things that form her true purpose and piece them together. She’s happy at last because, against society’s pretentious family, she discovers her voice and finds her personality.

Providence Always Remembers the Upright

It’s nearly a miracle how Jane survives throughout every stage of the book. Frankly, ‘ Jane Eyre ’ is a chancy book that creates such a scary reality for a fairly helpless little girl. Still, the daring and fearless narrative is also a reason author Charlotte Brontë scores points on ‘ Jane Eyre ’ because there are at least a few million young girls and boys who go through this same struggle, or worse, in their respective reality.

However, thank gracious how providence always seems to turn up for Jane in dangerous and difficult situations (and I hope, for God’s sake, it turns up for the million youthful others worldwide who can relate to this story). First off, the readers will notice how, in aunt Reed’s home at Gateshead, providence uses a servant, Bessie, to feed, care for, and serve as a mother figure to maltreatment, starving Jane. She probably wouldn’t have survived long enough to experience Lowood School, not to mention Thornfield, Moor House, or Ferndean.

Another worthy mention of a good meddling of the saving hands of providence is the part right after Jane disappointedly leaves Thornfield and Mr. Rochester after finding out that he (Mr. Rochester) had been lying to her about not having a wife. Sad and depressed and without a home or a destination, Jane wanders the dangerous streets, sleeps in them, begs, and collects scraps for food. No bad thing happens to her, from the poor food, street hooligans, etc. This is sheer providence.

A Rollercoaster Ride of Love and Heartbreaks

There are at least two heartbreaks, Jane, the protagonist, faces in the book, and I would think one of the two hurt her the most. Let’s start with the one that didn’t hurt so much, Jane’s experience with her cousin St. John Rivers. A homeless Jane is taken in by St. John Rivers and his sisters, cleaned, fed, and cared for. She bounces back to her gracious self, and it doesn’t take long for St. John to fall for her.

When this happens, the next thing that follows is heartbreak. For even though Jane cares so much about John, she doesn’t love him enough to want to spend the rest of her life with him. However, after the saga, she is buried in thought, despondent over it, and decides to leave Moor House and the presence of St. John.

The other instance, and the one that hurts so much for Jane, is the event over at Thornfield involving Mr. Rochester. Jane is particularly broken by this because she genuinely loves him and is going to walk down the aisle with him until she finds out he has a crazy legal wife locked up in the attic.

How does Jane survive three days straight in the streets without money, shelter, or food?

Jane is lucky enough to go unscathed, having spent days out in the streets after a fallout with Mr. Rochester, although she now has to survive the hard way by begging for food and sleeping anywhere a proper shelter.

What are the pros of Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ’?

The story of ‘ Jane Eyre ’ is loved for its ability to tackle difficult topics in female gender rights, social decadence, and poverty, among other things.

Are there any cons in ‘ Jane Eyre ’ by Charlotte Brontë?

There are a few cons in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘ Jane Eyre ,’ and mentioning some would include the book’s display of immorality and anti-social tendencies.

Jane Eyre Review

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë book cover illustration

Book Title: Jane Eyre

Book Description: 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë is a powerful narrative of resilience and integrity, where young Jane confronts a male-dominated society, challenging norms and advocating for gender equality and dignity.

Book Author: Charlotte Brontë

Book Edition: First Edition

Book Format: Hardcover

Publisher - Organization: Smith, Elder & Co.

Date published: October 16, 1847

ISBN: 978-0140437286

Number Of Pages: 479

Jane Eyre Review: You Can Impact Society and Make a Change Irrespective of Your Background, Gender or Age

Charlotte Brontë’s eponymous book, ‘Jane Eyre,’ shows us how integrity and good ideas can help bring a meaningful change in society – regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or skin color. 10-year-old Jane overcomes maltreatment in a foster home to face a ruthless and brutal society controlled by men. With women like her already bowing to the pressures, Jane finds herself up against an uphill battle to reclaim the relevance of her gender and the pride of the humble and oppressed.

Rich storyline
Well-defined characters
Gender equality activization
Gender stereotype
Immorality issues
Overly French for an English read

About Victor Onuorah

Victor is as much a prolific writer as he is an avid reader. With a degree in Journalism, he goes around scouring literary storehouses and archives; picking up, dusting the dirt off, and leaving clean even the most crooked pieces of literature all with the skill of analysis.

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07 Oct Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre: In-depth Book Review and Analysis

Introduction:.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë is a seminal piece that burgeons with profound themes and rich character development, making it a must-read for those intrigued by 19th-century literature . This review delves into the essence of Brontë’s narrative, examining its literary anatomy and socio-cultural underpinnings. Recommended reading age is 14 and above due to mature themes.

The narrative follows Jane Eyre , an orphaned girl, who navigates a world often hostile towards her. Through her experiences at Lowood School , and later, at Thornfield Hall as a governess, the book explores themes of love, independence, and the struggle against societal expectations.

Jane Eyre stands robust in its storytelling and characterization, yet, its pacing can be tedious for modern readers. The book, through its meticulous narrative and a strong, independent protagonist, encourages dialogue on gender roles and social status, making it a significant read. Literary devices such as foreshadowing, symbolism, and irony are intricately woven into the fabric of the narrative. The storyline mirrors Brontë’s own life, echoing her reflections on women’s independence and social criticism.

Evaluation:

Readers who appreciate a blend of romance, social critique, and a journey of self-discovery would find Jane Eyre engaging. Compared to other works like Wuthering Heights by her sister Emily, Jane Eyre is less dark yet equally poignant. The book is highly recommended for its enduring relevance and insightful exploration of human emotions and societal norms.

Possible questions for a high school test:

Answer: By seeking independence, education, and challenging gender roles.
Answer: The ‘Red Room’ symbolizes Jane’s imprisonment and her fear of oppression.
Answer: Examples include Mr. Rochester’s disguises, hinting at his deceptive nature or the eerie laughter foreshadowing the revelation of Bertha Mason.

Awards and accolades:

While awards as we know them weren’t prevalent when published, the books critical acclaim has secured its place as a classic in English literature .

Functional details about the book:

ISBN: Varies by edition
Pages: ~500
Publisher: Various publishers due to its public domain status
First Published: 1847
Adaptations: Numerous, including films, TV shows, and stage plays
Genre: Novel, Bildungsroman
BISAC Categories: Fiction / Classics
Suggested Reading Age: 14 and up

Opening Excerpt of the book:

Excerpt from Jane Eyre | Penguin Random House Canada

Other Reviews:

Numerous reviews are available online, reflecting a high appreciation for its narrative and the protagonist’s strong character.

Where to buy the book:

Jane Eyre on Bookshop.org

Is this book part of a series?

No, it’s a standalone novel.

About the author:

Charlotte Brontë, born in 1816, was an English novelist and poet, the eldest of the three Brontë sisters, all of whom were literary figures. Besides Jane Eyre , she authored Shirley and Villette . Although not awarded in her time, her work has left an indelible mark on literature.

The 100 best novels: No 12 – Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847)

"There was no possibility of taking a walk that day."

From its haunting first line to its famous closer, "Reader, I married him", Charlotte Brontë takes her audience by the throat with a fierce narrative of great immediacy. Jane Eyre's voice on the page is almost hypnotic. The reader can hardly resist turning the next page, and the next…

In an extraordinary breakthrough for the English novel, borrowing the intimacy of the 18th-century epistolary tradition, Charlotte Brontë had found a way to mesmerise the reader through an intensely private communion with her audience. We, the author, and Jane Eyre become one. For this, she can be claimed as the forerunner of the novel of interior consciousness. Add to this a prose style of unvarnished simplicity and you have the Victorian novel that cast a spell over its generation. Even today, many readers will never forget the moment they first entered the strange, bleak world of this remarkable book.

The magic of Jane Eyre begins with Charlotte Brontë herself. She began to write her second novel ( The Professor had just been rejected) in August 1846. A year later it was done, much of it composed in a white heat. The reading public was spellbound. Thackeray's daughter says that the novel (which was dedicated to her father) "set all London talking, reading, speculating". She herself reports that she was "carried away by an undreamed-of and hitherto unimagined whirlwind".

There are three principal elements to Brontë's magic. First, the novel is cast, from the title page, as "an autobiography". This is a convention derived from Defoe's Robinson Crusoe (No 2 in this series) . But the adventure offered by the author is an interior one. Jane Eyre portrays the urgent quest of its narrator for an identity. Jane, who cannot remember her parents, and as an orphan has no secure place in the world, is in search of her "self" as a young, downtrodden woman.

Related to this, Jane Eyre has a raw, occasionally erotic, immediacy. Not only does Jane reject Brocklehurst, St John Rivers and John Reed, she also craves submission to her "master", the Byronic Mr Rochester. The violence of men against women is implicit in many of Jane's transactions with both Rivers and Rochester. The thrill of this, to the Victorian reader, cannot be overestimated.

Finally, Jane Eyre , addressed insistently to "the reader", is so steeped in English literature that it becomes an echo chamber of earlier books. Within a very few pages of the opening, there are references to Paradise Lost , Walter Scott's Marmion and Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels (No 3 in this series) .

Brontë herself, the daughter of a tyrannical north country parson, was very familiar with John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress (No 1 in this series) . Critics have described a five-fold Bunyanesque progression to Jane Eyre , beginning with "Gateshead", moving to the depths of "Lowood", then the trials of "Thornfield" and "Marsh End" before achieving the blessed release of "Ferndean". Jane's spiritual pilgrimage is also narrated with biblical simplicity, combined with considerable artifice.

Jane Eyre also displays the familiar tropes of the gothic novel. Thornfield is a gothic manor; Mr Rochester a gothic-romantic protagonist. The mad woman in the attic speaks for herself, as it were. In addition, Brontë herself knows the storytelling power of what she calls "the suspended revelation", a phrase coined in chapter 20, and never hesitates to tantalise and seduce the reader.

The year 1847 must be the annus mirabilis of English fiction. The manuscript of Jane Eyre reached the publisher, George Smith, in August. He began to read one Sunday morning. "The story quickly took me captive," he wrote. "Before twelve o'clock my horse came to the door but I could not put the book down… before I went to bed that night I had finished reading."

Publication in October 1847 became so sensational that publisher Smith, Elder & Co's rival, Thomas Newby, decided to bring forward the release of Emily Brontë's unpublished manuscript. In December, 1847, Victorian readers still digesting the thrill of Jane Eyre found themselves contemplating a new novel called Wuthering Heights .

A note on the text

The publication history of Jane Eyre is intimately connected to Charlotte Brontë's return from Brussels in 1844. As soon as she read Emily's poetry, she persuaded Anne and Emily to submit a selection of their work under the names Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell to London publishers, but without any immediate success. In the end, the poems were privately published. Then, in July 1847, Thomas Newby agreed to publish Emily's Wuthering Heights . Her elder sister Charlotte now sent her first novel, The Professor , to Smith, Elder & Co, who turned it down, but asked to see other work. Charlotte submitted Jane Eyre , which caught the eye of George Smith, and appeared at breakneck speed on 19 October 1847, in three volumes, "edited by Currer Bell". The first American edition, from Harper & Brothers,of New York, appeared in 1848. A second British edition, dedicated to William Thackeray, was published in 1850, with some local scandal. Charlotte Brontë did not apparently know that Thackeray had had his own wife declared insane.

Other books by Charlotte Brontë

The Professor ; Villette ; Shirley . Mrs Gaskell's Life of Charlotte Brontë is also indispensable reading.

Charlotte Brontë
The 100 best novels

Comments (…)

The Best Fiction Books » Classic English Literature

By charlotte brontë.

Jane Eyre was published in 1847—with the novel’s author listed as ‘Currer Bell’—and was an immediate commercial success. The main protagonist, Jane, is an orphan who has an extremely tough life before meeting the man of her dreams. Unfortunately, he has dark secrets and the sense of foreboding that pervades the novel makes it also something of a thriller.

Recommendations from our site

“Jane Eyre in some respects—not in every respect but in some respects—is the original domestic noir…there’s a sense of building threat and building crisis in the book. But I also love the social commentary and the feminism. It’s my favourite book of all time…I read it out loud to my daughter when she was about 15 and it’s just an incredible book” Read more...

The Best Classic Thrillers

Lucy Atkins , Journalist

“It wasn’t until my third reading of the book that I realised Brontë had slipped the supernatural into Jane Eyre.” Read more...

The Best Gothic Novels

Sarah Perry , Novelist

“The idea of marriage is that two people are going to become one, but here you know—because of the mad woman in the attic—that it’s one thing about to be split in two.” Read more...

Tracy Chevalier on Trees in Literature

Tracy Chevalier , Historical Novelist

“There is an interesting debate … that the real heroine of Jane Eyre is not the plain little governess but the mad woman in the attic, Bertha Mason” Read more...

The Best Victorian Novels

John Sutherland , Literary Scholar

“Jane Eyre came out of a very bad situation, but she was a very strong child because she had to be. They put her through a lot; they treated her very badly. She just kept looking forward. She had the idea that there must be something better.” Read more...

Audrey Penn recommends her Favourite Teenage Books

Audrey Penn , Children's Author

“This book was revolutionary because it insisted that not only could a heroine be small and poor and plain, but she could actually be worthy of respect because she had a mind.” Read more...

Books that Changed the World

Amanda Craig , Journalist

The audiobook of Jane Eyre is narrated by the British actress Thandie Newton. Listening time: 19 hours 10 minutes

Great Actors Read Great Books

“I don’t think any married woman would have written Jane Eyre…there is a certain naive attitude to men which would hardly survive a year of married life.”

DH Lawrence, quoted in Novelists on Novelists, edited by David Dowling

“[Charlotte Brontë] does not attempt to solve the problems of human life; she is even unaware that such problems exist; all her force, and it is the more tremendous for being constricted, goes into the assertion, ‘I love’, ‘I hate’, ‘I suffer’.

Virginia Woolf, quoted in Novelists on Novelists, edited by David Dowling

Other books by Charlotte Brontë

Jane eyre and wuthering heights (illustrated) by charlotte brontë, emily brontë & fritz eichenberg (illustrator), villette by charlotte brontë, our most recommended books, great expectations by charles dickens, jane eyre by charlotte brontë, wuthering heights by emily brontë, antony and cleopatra by william shakespeare, the great gatsby by f. scott fitzgerald, frankenstein (book) by mary shelley.

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Mental Branch

a space for bookworms

Jane eyre by charlotte brontë - review, summary, analysis & facts.

Point of View

The novel is primarily narrated in the first person by the protagonist, Jane Eyre.

The story is set primarily in England during the early 19th century. Significant settings include Gateshead Hall (Jane's childhood home), Lowood School (where Jane is educated), Thornfield Hall (the estate where Jane becomes a governess), and Moor House (where she finds refuge).

Jane Eyre - The protagonist, an orphaned young woman who becomes a governess.

Edward Rochester - The brooding master of Thornfield Hall.

Mrs. Reed - Jane's cruel aunt who raises her at Gateshead Hall.

Helen Burns - Jane's friend at Lowood School.

St. John Rivers - A clergyman who offers Jane assistance.

Bertha Mason - Rochester's mysterious wife, hidden away in Thornfield Hall.

Adele Varens - Rochester's ward and Jane's pupil.

Mr. Rochester's servants: Mrs. Fairfax, Grace Poole, and others.

Various other minor characters such as Blanche Ingram, Mr. Brocklehurst, and Diana and Mary Rivers.

"Jane Eyre" follows the journey of its titular character, Jane Eyre, from her difficult childhood to her adulthood. Orphaned at a young age and raised by her cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed, Jane endures mistreatment and isolation at Gateshead Hall. She is eventually sent to Lowood School, where she befriends the kind-hearted Helen Burns but also faces harsh conditions.

After completing her education, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she meets its enigmatic master, Mr. Rochester. Despite their differences in social status and temperament, Jane and Rochester develop a deep connection and fall in love. However, Thornfield Hall holds dark secrets, including the presence of Rochester's mentally unstable wife, Bertha Mason, whom he keeps locked away.

As Jane and Rochester's relationship deepens, obstacles arise, including the revelation of Rochester's marriage and subsequent attempts to suppress Jane's independence. Faced with moral dilemmas and personal hardships, Jane ultimately chooses to leave Thornfield Hall, unwilling to compromise her principles or sacrifice her dignity.

After leaving Thornfield, Jane finds refuge with the Rivers family and discovers her own familial connections. She learns of her inheritance and gains independence. Yet, despite her newfound security, Jane cannot ignore her love for Rochester. Returning to Thornfield, she finds the estate in ruins and Rochester blind and crippled from a tragic accident. Jane and Rochester reconcile, and their love triumphs over adversity as they begin a new life together.

"Jane Eyre" is a timeless tale of love, independence, and the search for belonging, characterized by its strong-willed protagonist and atmospheric Gothic setting. Through Jane's journey, the novel explores themes of social class, morality, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

"Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë is a timeless classic that follows the life of its titular protagonist, Jane Eyre, as she navigates the challenges of her tumultuous upbringing and searches for love, independence, and self-discovery. Set in early 19th-century England, the novel explores themes of social class, gender roles, morality, and the power of individual agency.

The story begins with Jane's early childhood at Gateshead Hall, where she lives with her cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her cousins. Jane is mistreated and marginalized by her family, who view her as inferior due to her orphan status. Despite the harsh conditions, Jane exhibits resilience and a strong sense of self-worth.

After a particularly traumatic incident involving her cousin, John Reed, Jane is sent to Lowood School, a charity institution for orphaned girls. At Lowood, Jane befriends Helen Burns, a fellow student who teaches her the importance of endurance and forgiveness. Despite the oppressive regime and harsh discipline at the school, Jane excels academically and eventually becomes a teacher.

Upon completing her education, Jane seeks employment as a governess and accepts a position at Thornfield Hall, where she meets its enigmatic owner, Mr. Rochester. Despite their difference in social status, Jane and Rochester form a deep emotional connection based on mutual respect and intellectual compatibility. However, Thornfield Hall harbors dark secrets, including the presence of Bertha Mason, Rochester's mentally unstable wife, whom he keeps locked away on the third floor.

As Jane and Rochester's relationship develops, obstacles arise, including the interference of the haughty socialite, Blanche Ingram, whom Rochester is expected to marry for financial reasons. Despite Rochester's attempts to conceal his feelings for Jane, their love becomes undeniable, culminating in his proposal of marriage. However, on their wedding day, the revelation of Rochester's existing marriage to Bertha Mason shatters Jane's dreams of happiness.

Refusing to compromise her principles or sacrifice her integrity, Jane flees Thornfield Hall in search of independence and self-sufficiency. She finds refuge with the Rivers family, who offer her kindness and support. Through a series of coincidences, Jane discovers her true identity as the long-lost niece of Mrs. Reed and the rightful heir to her uncle's fortune.

Empowered by her newfound inheritance, Jane returns to Thornfield Hall to confront Rochester and reclaim her love. However, she finds the estate in ruins, destroyed by a fire set by Bertha Mason, who ultimately perishes in the flames. Rochester survives but is left blind and maimed by the tragedy.

Reunited at last, Jane and Rochester reaffirm their love and commitment to each other, transcending societal expectations and personal hardships. With Bertha Mason's death, the impediment to their union is removed, and they are free to start anew. The novel concludes with Jane and Rochester embarking on a life together, united in love and mutual respect.

"Jane Eyre" is a powerful and enduring tale of resilience, passion, and self-discovery. Through Jane's journey, Brontë explores the complexities of human relationships and the struggle for individual autonomy in a society bound by convention and prejudice. Jane Eyre emerges as a feminist icon, challenging traditional gender roles and asserting her right to love and be loved on her own terms. As a bildungsroman, the novel traces Jane's evolution from a mistreated orphan to a self-assured woman who finds fulfillment and happiness on her own terms. With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and timeless themes, "Jane Eyre" continues to captivate readers and inspire generations with its message of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of love.

Identity and Independence: One of the central themes of "Jane Eyre" is the quest for identity and independence. Jane's journey from a mistreated orphan to a self-assured woman is marked by her struggle to assert her individuality and autonomy in a society that seeks to confine her to traditional gender roles and social expectations.

Love and Morality: The novel explores the complex interplay between love and morality, particularly in Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester. Their love transcends social barriers and conventions, yet it is tested by ethical dilemmas and personal sacrifices. Through their story, Brontë delves into questions of duty, integrity, and the nature of true love.

Social Class and Gender: "Jane Eyre" critiques the rigid class distinctions and gender inequalities of Victorian society. Jane's position as a governess places her in a liminal space between the upper and lower classes, highlighting the precariousness of her social status. Brontë exposes the hypocrisy and injustices inherent in the class structure, as well as the limitations imposed on women's agency and self-expression.

Religion and Morality: Religion plays a significant role in the novel, particularly in Jane's moral development. Her encounters with religious figures like Mr. Brocklehurst and St. John Rivers challenge her understanding of faith and morality, ultimately leading her to forge her own path based on compassion, empathy, and personal integrity.

Characters:

Jane Eyre: As the protagonist and narrator, Jane Eyre is a complex and multi-dimensional character. She is fiercely independent, morally upright, and intellectually curious, yet she also grapples with feelings of insecurity, loneliness, and longing for love and acceptance.

Mr. Rochester: Rochester is portrayed as a brooding and enigmatic figure with a troubled past. Despite his flaws and dark secrets, he is also depicted as a passionate and charismatic individual who shares a deep emotional connection with Jane.

Bertha Mason: Bertha represents the repressed and marginalized "other" within Victorian society. As Rochester's mad wife, she is confined to the attic of Thornfield Hall, symbolizing the consequences of patriarchal oppression and the destructive effects of societal constraints on women's mental health and autonomy.

St. John Rivers: St. John serves as a foil to Rochester, embodying the ideals of duty, self-denial, and religious piety. His proposal to Jane offers her a conventional path to social respectability and missionary work, but ultimately, she rejects it in favor of following her heart.

Narrative Techniques:

First-Person Narration: The novel is primarily narrated in the first person by Jane Eyre, offering readers intimate access to her thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This narrative style enables Brontë to explore Jane's inner life with depth and complexity, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles and triumphs.

Gothic Elements: "Jane Eyre" incorporates elements of Gothic fiction, including eerie settings, mysterious occurrences, and dark secrets. Thornfield Hall, with its hidden attic and haunting atmosphere, serves as a Gothic backdrop to Jane and Rochester's romance, adding suspense and tension to the narrative.

Symbolism and Imagery: Brontë employs symbolism and imagery throughout the novel to convey deeper thematic meanings. For example, the motif of fire symbolizes passion, destruction, and rebirth, while the recurring imagery of birds represents freedom and longing for escape.

Cultural Significance:

"Jane Eyre" holds enduring cultural significance as a seminal work of English literature that continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes, compelling characters, and evocative storytelling. Its exploration of identity, love, and social justice resonates across generations, making it a perennial favorite in literary studies and popular culture.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë - Rating: 5/5 Stars

As an avid reader, I often find myself drawn to literary classics that stand the test of time, and Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre" is undoubtedly one of them. In my opinion, this novel is a masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its richly drawn characters, compelling narrative, and timeless themes.

One of the reasons why "Jane Eyre" is worth reading is its complex and relatable protagonist, Jane Eyre. I found myself deeply invested in Jane's journey from her tumultuous childhood at Gateshead Hall to her eventual triumphs and happiness. Jane's unwavering integrity, resilience, and fierce independence make her a compelling and inspiring heroine who defies societal expectations and pursues her own path to self-discovery and fulfillment.

Moreover, Brontë's exploration of themes such as love, identity, social class, and morality resonates with universal significance, inviting readers to reflect on timeless questions about the human condition. The novel's nuanced portrayal of Jane's relationship with the enigmatic Mr. Rochester, as well as its examination of the constraints and injustices faced by women in Victorian society, adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

"Jane Eyre" is recommended for readers who appreciate richly layered storytelling, complex characters, and themes that transcend time and place. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or simply enjoy a well-crafted tale of love, independence, and self-discovery, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

However, it's worth noting that "Jane Eyre" is not without its criticisms. Some readers may find fault with the novel's pacing, particularly in the early chapters, which delve into Jane's childhood and education at Lowood School. Additionally, the novel's portrayal of certain characters, such as Bertha Mason, has been subject to scrutiny for its racial and colonial implications. While these criticisms are valid, they do not detract from the overall impact and significance of Brontë's masterful work.

In conclusion, "Jane Eyre" is a timeless classic that rewards readers with its depth, complexity, and enduring relevance. Brontë's powerful exploration of love, independence, and self-discovery continues to resonate with readers across generations, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant literary experience.

Jane Eyre undergoes significant character development throughout the novel. How does she evolve from her childhood experiences at Gateshead Hall to her adulthood at Thornfield Hall and beyond? What pivotal moments shape her growth and identity?

Mr. Rochester is a complex and controversial character. Discuss his role as a romantic hero and the dynamics of his relationship with Jane Eyre. How do his flaws and past actions influence your perception of him?

The theme of social class is prominent throughout the novel. How does Brontë explore the impact of class distinctions on characters like Jane Eyre, Mr. Rochester, and Bertha Mason? In what ways do societal expectations shape their interactions and relationships?

Bertha Mason is a marginalized and misunderstood character in the novel. How does Brontë depict Bertha's madness and confinement at Thornfield Hall? What commentary does her character provide on gender, race, and colonialism in Victorian society?

Discuss the significance of setting in "Jane Eyre," particularly Thornfield Hall and the Yorkshire moors. How do these locations contribute to the mood, atmosphere, and themes of the novel?

Religion plays a significant role in the lives of several characters, including Jane Eyre and St. John Rivers. How does Brontë explore themes of faith, morality, and spirituality in the novel? How do characters' religious beliefs influence their actions and decisions?

"Jane Eyre" has been praised for its feminist themes and portrayal of a strong, independent female protagonist. How does Jane Eyre defy gender norms and expectations for women in Victorian society? In what ways does she assert her agency and autonomy throughout the novel?

Explore the motif of the "madwoman in the attic" in "Jane Eyre." What symbolic significance does Bertha Mason's presence at Thornfield Hall hold? How does her character contribute to the novel's Gothic atmosphere and themes of confinement and repression?

Brontë employs various narrative techniques, including first-person narration and shifts in perspective, to tell Jane Eyre's story. How do these narrative choices impact your understanding of the characters and events in the novel? Do you find the narrative style effective in conveying Jane's experiences and emotions?

Reflect on the novel's enduring popularity and cultural significance. Why do you think "Jane Eyre" continues to resonate with readers today? What themes, characters, or elements of the story do you find most compelling or relevant to contemporary audiences?

About the Author: Charlotte Brontë

Charlotte Brontë (1816-1855) was a British novelist and poet, best known for her iconic novel "Jane Eyre." Born in Thornton, West Yorkshire, England, Charlotte was the third of six siblings in the Brontë family. Alongside her sisters Emily and Anne, Charlotte grew up in a literary household, where they were encouraged to read and write from a young age. Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of her mother and two older sisters, Charlotte pursued her passion for writing and embarked on a remarkable literary career.

In 1847, Charlotte achieved literary success with the publication of "Jane Eyre," her first novel under the pseudonym "Currer Bell." The novel's compelling narrative, complex characters, and exploration of social and moral issues garnered widespread acclaim and established Charlotte as a prominent figure in Victorian literature. She went on to publish several more novels, including "Shirley" (1849) and "Villette" (1853), before her untimely death at the age of 38.

What Inspired the Author to Write the Book:

Charlotte Brontë drew inspiration for "Jane Eyre" from her own experiences and observations of Victorian society. Like her protagonist Jane Eyre, Charlotte faced adversity and challenges throughout her life, including the loss of her mother and the constraints of her gender in a patriarchal society. These personal experiences, coupled with her keen sense of empathy and social conscience, informed the themes and characters of the novel.

Additionally, Charlotte was influenced by the Gothic literature of the time, as well as her literary contemporaries such as William Makepeace Thackeray and Elizabeth Gaskell. The atmospheric setting of Thornfield Hall and the mysterious figure of Mr. Rochester reflect the Gothic elements prevalent in Victorian literature, while Jane's quest for independence and self-discovery resonated with the burgeoning feminist movement of the era.

Influences from the Author's Life in the Book:

Several aspects of Charlotte Brontë's life are reflected in "Jane Eyre," both directly and indirectly. The novel's protagonist, Jane Eyre, shares similarities with Charlotte herself, including a strong sense of independence, resilience in the face of adversity, and a desire for intellectual and emotional fulfillment.

Moreover, Charlotte drew on her own experiences and observations of social injustice to depict the struggles of women and marginalized individuals in Victorian society. The themes of class inequality, gender discrimination, and the constraints of societal expectations are prominent throughout the novel, reflecting Charlotte's keen awareness of the social and moral issues of her time.

Overall, "Jane Eyre" stands as a testament to Charlotte Brontë's literary genius and enduring legacy, offering readers a compelling portrait of love, resilience, and the pursuit of personal freedom in the face of adversity.

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Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Jane Eyre (1847) by Charlotte Brontë is an empowering, erotic Victorian novel, brimming with Gothic tropes and explosive energy. Its eponymous heroine, an orphan, is brought up, alongside her antagonistic cousins, under the hostile care of her aunt, Sarah Reed. When Jane is sent away to Lowood School it seems that she has escaped a terrible situation only to be thrown into one more dire. Though she finds friendship at Lowood, the conditions are harsh, and when things come apart, Jane forges for herself another escape, this time to be governess at Thornfield Hall. Her master there is Mr. Edward Rochester: a dark, brooding man. Though Mr. Rochester pursues another – Blanche Ingram: a beauty, with whom Jane’s plain features cannot compete – a bond develops between master and governess. Eventually, Mr. Rochester’s affections turn to Jane and he proposes marriage. But all is not well at Thornfield, a fact that Jane will soon discover. As secrets are revealed, Jane is forced from the house and it seems that there can be no union between her and the man she loves.

book review of jane eyre by charlotte bronte

Throughout the novel, Jane has her voice quieted and her agency restricted yet she refuses to accept her own lack of independence, and insists on her strict sense of self as an individual. She develops this strength of character through a series of experiences, reminiscent, structurally, of John Bunyan ’s A Pilgrim’s Progess . It is Rochester’s eventual acknowledgement of Jane as an intelligent, genuinely caring person that allows her to fall for him. This too goes some way to navigating the difficult dynamic of their early relationship: that of master and servant. Increasingly, Jane Eyre has been read as a feminist tract, but this central dynamic – somehow reminiscent of the one between Pamela Andrews and Mr. B in Samuel Richardson ’s less progressive novel Pamela – creates a potential problem for a feminist reading. That Jane and Rochester’s relationship evolves from a typically patriarchal affair to something approaching a palatable equality allows room for the relationship to be read as a transformative one, rather than an oppressive one. With her sharpness of mind and stubborn individuality, Jane is set apart from her literary predecessors like Pamela Andrews and Fanny Price by her strong sense of self. Equally, unlike heroines of manorial fiction past, she does not seek to assimilate into the culture of estate but remains apart from it, and it is this sense of Otherness that allows a more sympathetic reading of the conformist aspects of Jane’s personality.

Jane’s passion is not just for Mr. Rochester: contained in her small, unremarkable body is a fire that quietly blazes against those that seek to oppress her and constrict her agency. For Brontë as for Jane, life can only be satisfying when lived fully and on one’s own terms. This causes conflicts, both between Jane and other characters, and within herself. Similar to Austen ’s Sense and Sensibility , there is a clash between natural passion and reason, here blazing within Jane. As the novel progresses, Jane acknowledges that one must be tempered by the other: Rochester may be where Jane’s passion lies, but she must navigate the difficult path between a prudent match, and a fulfilling one, just as Rochester himself must have his Byronic excesses quelled. Certainly, in contrast to the other (potential) matches in the book, it is, eventually, a meeting of two independent people who value one another not for what they can offer but simply for themselves. Nevertheless, Rochester remains problematic. As a hero, even a Byronic hero, Rochester appears without merit for most of the novel: he is controlling towards Jane, hideous towards Bertha (his first wife), a serial bigamist/adulterer, and with a very short list of pleasant characteristics to balance these less desirable ones. Even as a character that appeals to the emotional, he lacks the unbearable passion that Heathcliff represents, and has no true redemption/revelation like Darcy. Instead, he maintains an odd patriarchal appeal; on a visceral level this works, but beyond it is problematic.

Jane Eyre met with a difficult critical reception on its publication. It was not, as might be supposed, the brooding and overt sexuality of Rochester that offended Victorian society but the refusal of Jane to submit to her expected role and perceived ‘anti-Christian’ sentiment within the book. As has been noted elsewhere, a (fictional) woman who desires a Byronic partner can easily be accommodated, but a woman who desires escape from much of what society holds to be ‘proper’ cannot. By representing a woman who combines these unrepressed passions, Jane becomes a dangerous heroine and one who was identified as such by many reviewers.

Brontë defended Jane Eyre against claims of irreligiosity in an introductory note to the second edition, despite her own dim view of many facets of religion. In the novel, Jane encounters three religious characters – Mr. Brocklehurst, Helen Burns, and St. John Rivers – each of whom have their evident (religious) failings, which Jane rightly comprehends. Consequently, none are able convince her to share their views. She is aware, however, of the need to balance transient pleasure with moral duty. Her rejection of the religious characters is less a sign of her disavowal of religion and more a sign of her own autonomous morality. For Jane is in touch a personal form of spirituality – a state common to many Brontë characters.

Throughout the text, Jane is silenced and has her own position identified, and history told, by others. Whether Jane is constrained by man or society, she feels a constant need to escape the sense of powerlessness and commodification of her own body and she achieves this by retaining control of her imagination, which carries her far from the hold of society. Jane fears that marriage will cause her to lose her identity and it’s not until this fear is assuaged that she can countenance the idea. However, her submission to marriage by the novel’s close, even seen through the active role she plays in the decision as typified by the novel’s famous assertion “Reader, I married him,” leaves Jane as typical domestic triumph – wed and removed from the independent life she has forged for herself. It is a carefully negotiated union, which re-positions Jane as a collaborator in the conceit, rather than an inactive object in it, but still presents a problem that feminist readings of the text must overcome.

Jane’s sense of self – perhaps of particular import to her as an orphan – is embodied by her strong narrative. She asserts the ‘I’ of her story and addresses the reader with a commentary on her own life, affirming the value of her own inner monologue. This strong sense of individual importance chimes not only with nineteenth century feminism, but economic individualism and political liberalism too. It was a period when the idea of the autonomous individual being as relevant as the state/society was becoming entrenched in Anglo-American society, and Jane Eyre ’s narrative forces the female voice to intersect with this growing sense of the individual. It was a change that was reflected in literature, with the development of stream of consciousness narratives, which positioned the inner life of characters as more important than the outer life of the world. In this sense, Jane Eyre is a progressive character both in terms of her personality and her literary worth.

It’s odd to think that a novel of such potent feeling was first published under the pseudonym Currer Bell – Brontë was, after all, well aware that male authors were afforded a greater gravitas than their female counterparts. Almost two centuries later and Jane Eyre is rightly considered one of the most thrillingly powerful novels of the Victorian period; a novel with feminist, individualist, and gothic charm in abundance. In a Room of One’s Own , Virginia Woolf would later write that Brontë was an author, who "had more genius in her than Jane Austen", but whose anger made her books “deformed and twisted”, but it is this wild, untameable passion that runs through Jane Eyre , which makes it so readable today. Certainly the emotions are both overwrought and overwritten, but Brontë’s writing sweeps the reader up in the tornado of dark emotions that run through the text, and gives them no choice but to continue on until the storm has abated and the last page has been turned.

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Book Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

The young, titular orphan lives with her Aunt Reed and cousins, where she is treated poorly and rejected as an outcast. This leads to Jane Eyre being sent away to attend Lowood School. After spending many years there as a student and also a teacher, she leaves to become a governess at Thornfield. As events unfold, Jane discovers her love for Mr Rochester, who owns Thornfield, but faces many challenges.

This has been a book that has probably been on my TBR for the longest. Although, I find I say that quite often, but it is true. I have such a long list of books that I want to read and as I go to read them another distracts me. As an avid classics reader, I am surprised that I have left this one for so long. I am pleased, to finally say that I have read this seminal classic by Charlotte Brontë and can agree that, that is what this book it: a classic.

The story is very different to what I predicted. Maybe because the main character is called Jane, my subconscious assumed it would be like Jane Austen’s work but I was soon proved wrong and reminded that this is the work of a Brontë. Jane Eyre is a relatable character. I would dare say that she still is today. A plain, outspoken girl, who is strong willed and passionate. Albeit, the character may be contemporarily relatable due to her characteristics being empowering and didactic to women now. However, from a contextual standpoint, this was atypical. Brontë boldly writes her female character with truth and doesn’t conform to preconceived notions and beliefs. The story is not idealised or romanticised to an extent where it is no longer believable. Jane Eyre is a realistic classic story. She is described to not be the epitome of beauty like many other classic female characters and faces her own challenges in life, all by herself and her character remains authentic throughout. The most striking part to note is the fact that after learning Mr Rochester has a wife, Jane leaves him. This is a very independent and courageous decision from Jane. If this was written by another classic author, I am certain that the love Jane had for Mr Rochester would be enough to stay and carry on her life with him despite the impediment, but Brontë doesn’t do this. Instead, she makes her female lead value her principles and integrity. Clearly, Jane Eyre was written ahead of its time and thus explains the continued admiration and popularity of the story.

As I started reading the book I couldn’t seem the put it down. The description was written well and didn’t seem too much. The pace of the story flowed well and everything I read felt necessary. I could imagine everything clearly in my head. However, this soon changed. I would pinpoint the change around the time when Jane leaves Thornfield or slightly before. The length of description became unnecessary. I felt that the story started to lack substance and my interest waned. I felt that I was no longer as gripped as I was at the beginning. I felt like I was reading for the sake of finishing it, but it improved towards the end. Maybe I didn’t enjoy the lack of Mr Rochester! Despite this, the gothic elements in the story deserve special commendation. Brontë vividly writes perfect accompanying atmospheres to the intense moments within the story.

Mr Rochester is such a fantastic character in my opinion. The Byronic Hero has strong moments where the reader doesn’t particularly enjoy his character but juxtaposing moments of unavoidable love. This is what makes Byronic Hero’s my favourite literary characters. They’re not supposed to be liked but you can’t help it! Mr Rochester’s moments of affection towards Jane are enough to excuse all the bad things he might have done. It is true that Mr Rochester is fascinated and enamoured by Jane, his love for her is genuine. However, he should have revealed his secret before their wedding day and also, perhaps, considered their age difference more. This was something that I couldn’t seem to get my head around, and after reading some other reviews of the novel, not many seem to mention this point. True, it isn’t explored too much and wouldn’t be as shocking to a Victorian audience. Undoubtedly, Mr Rochester is a very intriguing character. He is also described as not very attractive, solidifying the special attraction between Jane and himself. He values her intellect and mindfulness while appreciating the fact that she may be “plain”, compared to Miss Ingram and allows Jane’s natural beauty to shine. The main factor supporting love for Mr Rochester is that he sees and treats Jane as an equal. Equally, Jane loves Mr Rochester.

My future husband was becoming to me my whole world; and more than the world: almost my hope of heaven. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

At the end of the story, you can’t help but pity Mr Rochester. These final chapters are very emotional. The ending, however, could seem to contradict all I have commended. Especially Jane’s independence from leaving Mr Rochester but later returns to him and they eventually happily marry. This might appear to contradict Jane’s character, but it mainly reasserts the strong love the couple had for each other. Even though Jane returns to Mr Rochester, her qualities remain the same and she isn’t changed by marriage, merely happier.

Overall, I give Jane Eyre 5/5 stars. Even though I found the parts with strong description problematic, there are other phenomenal, redeeming qualities, i.e. Mr Rochester.

Thank you for reading my book review!

Published by Meg

Aiming to elevate the beauty of literature and advocate the enforcement of reading, to provide that escape and tranquility many desire in a difficult time. Promoting vicarious experiences and feelings in some of the best written characters of our time (and worst). Favouring the classics and exploring contemporary changes to show the development of the wonderful world of literature. View all posts by Meg

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Interesting perspective. Happy New Year!

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Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

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Charlotte Brontë’ s Jane Eyre A Case Book

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Jane Eyre is one of the most well-loved and widely read works in the canon, popular at both the high school and university levels. The casebook provides a series of essays that are lucidly and passionately written, and carefully researched and argued while still being accessible to the general reading public. The anthology is structured in three sections. The first provides three overall interpretations of the novel that are excellent examples of the most common approach to Jane Eyre: a reading that explores the psychological development of the novel's eponymous heroine. The second section will introduce more novel approaches: a feminist reading of the novel, a depiction of the psyche in Jane Eyre, a depiction of Jane in light of mid-Victorian discussions of Evangelicism, an analysis of Jane in relation to contemporary debates about the governess, and an examination of the novel in relation to colonialist discourse. The last section of the anthology includes essays that provide accounts of the familial context out of which Jane Eyre arose, its critical reception, and its literary afterlife.

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4.5 • 396 Ratings

Publisher Description

Charlotte Brontë’s most beloved novel describes the passionate love between the courageous orphan Jane Eyre and the brilliant, brooding, and domineering Rochester. The loneliness and cruelty of Jane’s childhood strengthens her natural independence and spirit, which prove invaluable when she takes a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall. But after she falls in love with her sardonic employer, her discovery of his terrible secret forces her to make a heart-wrenching choice. Ever since its publication in 1847, "Jane Eyre" has enthralled every kind of reader, from the most critical and cultivated to the youngest and most unabashedly romantic. It lives as one of the great triumphs of storytelling and as a moving and unforgettable portrayal of a woman's quest for self-respect.

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY APR 4, 2016

Whether one treasures this classic piece of literature as an old companion or has no acquaintance with it at all, the listener is in for a treat. Reader Bentinck draws us at once into the trials assailing the orphaned and ill-treated 10-year-old Jane. Bentinck's soft voice, flawless rhythms, and cultured British accent are exactly what's needed to guide listeners through this heroine's wild history of tribulations and jubilations. She portrays men, women, and children of different classes quite convincingly, and illuminates a wide range of nuanced emotions as Jane encounters hunger and cruelty as well as tender friendships at school, then a world of anger, fear, defeat, humor, sarcasm, affection, and exaltation as teacher and governess. The remarkable plot, the carefully delineated characters, and Bentinck's acting facility make the journey an intriguing and memorable experience.

Customer Reviews

Still absorbing and wonderful.

I first read this book at 14 or 15 and have always considered it as a favorite. Fifty or so years later it still is! Much can be learned of life and what is ultimately worth the wait!

The world’s first soap opera

Really not sure what all the fuss is about. Gothic romance, characters are hardly credibly human but does have a certain charm for its periodicity.

Jane Eyre was very good

Great book, it was kind of sad at the beginning, but I’m glad things worked out.

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Review: Alley Theatre's revamp of Charlotte Bronte's 'Jane Eyre' is a breath of fresh air

I f you think the story of an orphaned and penniless governess, stranded in the middle of nowhere England, who has one trouble after another might make for a long and dreary evening, you would be totally wrong.

The Alley has totally upped its game with Elizabeth Williamson’s smart and poignant adaptation of Charlotte Bronte’s classic 19th-century novel "Jane Eyre." With a deft combination of flashbacks, monologues and stirring scenes that include intense suffering, spooky surprises and romance, Eleanor Holdridge directs a stellar cast who handle multiple roles in a seamless fashion. And yes, even the costumes are wonderful — clever pieces that fit each dramatic moment with aplomb.

John Coyne's scenic design, Alberto Segarra's lighting design and Melanie Chen Cole's sound design work well together and all are transporting, whether Jane is sitting at a desk writing a letter, or cringing in a small bed as the audience sees, hears and wonders about the odd sounds and screams that defy explanation.

Brandon Weinbrenner’s casting is perfect. Houston favorites Susan Koozin and Todd Waite don’t have the leading roles, but they have multiple important ones, and their transformations are marvelous. Watching Koozin move from sweet Mrs. Fairfax to the mad woman in the attic is something to see. Ana Miramontes is convincing playing children (no mean feat!), and Melissa Pritchett, Joy Yvonne Jones and Gabriel Regojo ably round out the cast. The chemistry of all of actors seems effortless and allows viewers to concentrate on this long-ago world that still carries emotional resonance today.

And then there is the amazing accomplishment that this play achieves: the turning of a long, detailed and sometimes dry read, which may be cumbersome and dated to some contemporary readers, into a model of dramatic efficiency.

We care about these characters. We want to know or see what happens, even if we already know what is going to happen. Williamson’s adaptation is an object lesson in doing so: She chooses so carefully what to include that no one can miss how radical this novel was when Bronte wrote it. When Jane exclaims, “I wanted change!” we understand why, as her traumatic upbringing makes that completely understandable.

But what we also learn is that this is a character so low on the social ladder that her very desire for change is a revolutionary thought. Such governesses were not to even entertain such radical notions that “women feel the same as men do,” or that she is a person with thoughts and feelings who should be respected and considered. Bronte’s work broke the glass ceiling on the emotional temperature such women were allowed to have — and this play captures this subversive thread, even while Jane’s modesty and restraint is believably kept intact.

The play also infuses — in what is often considered to be a pretty joyless novel — a little levity and comic relief that makes the enigmatic Mr. Rochester an empathetic figure who is actually relatable (and even funny). Chris Hutchison is able to channel his talents into a role that fits him well, and let’s face it: If there is not a successful embodiment of Rochester on the stage, then everything else falls apart. Lucky for the audience, the show glimmers, no matter how intensely depressing the fog, moors and disappointments hanging around insist on being.

But here is the main thing: Melissa Molano, a fine actress who has excelled on many stages all over Houston, is superlative in the role of Jane Eyre. Molano finally has a role that allows her formidable talent to shine. She is not too mousy, never over the top. Her despair and passion is completely believable, her timing always right. Her expressions convey so much and every movement counts.

When she is speaking with passionate force, you listen. She is an actress who can make the unbelievable thought of a humble governess reaching some kind of happiness and equilibrium in a world that constantly pulls the rug out from underneath her completely believable and meaningful. And that is how you make a 19th-century novel that could buckle under the weight of despair something fresh, dramatic, relevant and inspiring on a 21st-century stage.

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Is It a Red Flag? ( Jane Eyre Edition)

By amy greenlee.

He’s your current employer, and you live in his house. Not a red flag. Not for you at least. As the person in the higher class, he is the one with the most to lose. For you, there is nowhere to go but up.

He lies to you about who he is when you first meet. Not a red flag. This is called keeping the mystery alive, and he is smart to make a habit of it early on.

He accuses you of putting a spell on his horse. Not a red flag. Insisting that the person you like has used dark magic is actually a very common method of flirting. All the kids/ grown men are doing it. Other versions of this technique include accusing the person you like of being a little fairy, accusing the person you like of being a little elf, and repeatedly referring to the person you like as “an unearthly thing.”

He asks you if his forehead pleases you. Not a red flag. Data show that poor regard for a spouse’s physiognomy — and specifically the frontal brow region — is a frequent source of marital strife. So, if he’s asking this question, he is probably starting to think seriously about the relationship.

He brings home another woman and spends all his time with her. Not a red flag. Being a true gentleman has many requirements. Sometimes, you have to use the little fork. And sometimes you have to house another woman (and all her friends and family) for several weeks, paying attention to only her. Do you want your future partner to be a part of high society or not?

He disguises himself as a fortune teller to learn your secrets. Not a red flag. Because he did come clean about it near the end. And when was the last time you put this much effort into date night?

He gets engaged to trick you into revealing your feelings for him. Not a red flag. How else is he supposed to know how you really feel? By asking you directly and accepting your response in earnest? No. Courting another woman to the brink of marriage is the only possible way. And, unfortunately, too few are willing to go to the trouble these days.

He describes you as “poor” and “plain” while proposing to you. Not a red flag. Relationships shouldn’t be built on lies, and it is rare to find a partner willing to take that principle and fully commit to it.

He asks you to sponge drops of blood from a guest’s head after they are mysteriously attacked in the middle of the night. He also asks you not to tell anyone about it. Not necessarily a red flag. Just because there are weird goings-on at his residence doesn’t mean he is responsible for them. I mean, obviously, you have questions. But as his lover/ employee, you are also eager/ contractually obligated to help. Ultmately, if he can offer some form of explanation for the incident, this is probably something you can work through.

He is secretly keeping his mentally unstable wife up in the attic, and she is the person who has been getting out and attacking people. Okay, yes. This is a red flag. But not because of what it says about his character; it just means he’s not technically eligible. You’ll need to wait things out until his current wife sets the house on fire, leaps off the roof, and makes him a one-handed, one-eyed, but officially available bachelor again.

Charlotte Bronte

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Jane Eyre Review by Charlotte Brontë
Jane Eyre Review: You Can Impact Society and Make a Change Irrespective of Your Background, Gender or Age . Charlotte Brontë's eponymous book, 'Jane Eyre,' shows us how integrity and good ideas can help bring a meaningful change in society - regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or skin color. 10-year-old Jane overcomes maltreatment in a foster home to face a ruthless and brutal ...
"Jane Eyre" Book Review
Read on for a thorough book review of "Jane Eyre" plus information about Charlotte Brontë and more! The image above, an 1899 watercolor drawing by Frederick Walker, depicts Mr. Rochester and the eponymous character Jane Eyre. ... Charlotte Bronte preached and practiced tolerance rather than revolution. She had high moral principles. Although ...
Book Review: "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte
Timeless and unforgettable. It is indubitable that this book is a masterpiece, but I also believe it to be a book of self-discovery. The love story is one of the best I have ever come across, and the construction of every character is thoughtful and detailed. The dialogues simply bristle the skin.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
A gothic masterpiece of tempestuous passions and dark secrets, Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre is edited with an introduction and notes by Stevie Davis in Penguin Classics. Charlotte Brontë tells the story of orphaned Jane Eyre, who grows up in the home of her heartless aunt, enduring loneliness and cruelty. This troubled childhood strengthens ...
An in-depth review and summary of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Introduction: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë is a seminal piece that burgeons with profound themes and rich character development, making it a must-read for those intrigued by 19th-century literature.This review delves into the essence of Brontë's narrative, examining its literary anatomy and socio-cultural underpinnings.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte - review. ... However, this classic book is really worth reading just for Jane and you should know that if you feel that Rochester is a conniving, disgusting ...
Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre, novel by Charlotte Bronte, first published in 1847. Widely considered a classic, it gave a new truthfulness to the Victorian novel with its realistic portrayal of the inner life of a woman, noting her struggles with her natural desires and social condition. Learn more about Jane Eyre, including its plot.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847)
The 100 best novels: No 12 - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847) Charlotte Brontë's erotic, gothic masterpiece became the sensation of Victorian England. Its great breakthrough was its ...
Book Review: 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte
Writing style and overall impressions. Jane Eyre can be daunting when you first read it, namely because the language is so different from the style employed nowadays. However, once you get past it, the story is fantastic. The edition I have from Scholastic Classics does make the book a lot more accessible and does a grand job of keeping the ...
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. Jane Eyre was published in 1847—with the novel's author listed as 'Currer Bell'—and was an immediate commercial success. The main protagonist, Jane, is an orphan who has an extremely tough life before meeting the man of her dreams. Unfortunately, he has dark secrets and the sense of foreboding that pervades the novel makes it also something of a thriller.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
SUMMARY. "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë is a timeless classic that follows the life of its titular protagonist, Jane Eyre, as she navigates the challenges of her tumultuous upbringing and searches for love, independence, and self-discovery. Set in early 19th-century England, the novel explores themes of social class, gender roles, morality ...
Jane Eyre: Study Guide
Jane Eyre, written by Charlotte Brontë and published in 1847, is a classic novel that follows the life and experiences of its eponymous protagonist, Jane Eyre.The narrative unfolds in the early 19th century and traces Jane's journey from her orphaned childhood to her struggles as a governess and, ultimately, her quest for independence, love, and self-respect.
Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Jane Eyre (1847) by Charlotte Brontë is an empowering, erotic Victorian novel, brimming with Gothic tropes and explosive energy. Its eponymous heroine, an orphan, is brought up, alongside her antagonistic cousins, under the hostile care of her aunt, Sarah Reed. When Jane is sent away to Lowood School it seems that she has escaped a terrible situation only to be thrown into one more dire.
Jane Eyre: Full Book Summary
Jane Eyre Full Book Summary. Jane Eyre is a young orphan being raised by Mrs. Reed, her cruel, wealthy aunt. A servant named Bessie provides Jane with some of the few kindnesses she receives, telling her stories and singing songs to her. One day, as punishment for fighting with her bullying cousin John Reed, Jane's aunt imprisons Jane in the ...
Book Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Book Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. The young, titular orphan lives with her Aunt Reed and cousins, where she is treated poorly and rejected as an outcast. This leads to Jane Eyre being sent away to attend Lowood School. After spending many years there as a student and also a teacher, she leaves to become a governess at Thornfield.
Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre (/ ɛər / AIR; originally published as Jane Eyre: An Autobiography) is a novel by the English writer Charlotte Brontë.It was published under her pen name "Currer Bell" on 19 October 1847 by Smith, Elder & Co. of London. The first American edition was published the following year by Harper & Brothers of New York. Jane Eyre is a bildungsroman that follows the experiences of its ...
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
by. Charlotte Bronte. The novel follows the life of Jane Eyre, an orphan who is mistreated by her relatives and sent to a charity school. As she grows up, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with the brooding and mysterious Mr. Rochester. However, she soon learns of a dark secret in his past that threatens their ...
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre opens with orphaned, ten-year-old Jane's forcible eviction from her window-seat refuge by her vicious and pampered cousin, John Reed. When Mrs. Reed takes John's side and locks Jane in the red-room, the pattern of Jane's oppression by authority figures is set. At Lowood School Jane is singled out for abuse by the tyrannical and ...
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte: 9780142419694
About Charlotte Bronte. Charlotte Brontë lived from 1816 to 1855. Jane Eyre appeared in 1847 and was followed by Shirley (1848) and Vilette (1853). In 1854, Charlotte Brontë married her father's curate, Arthur Bell Nicholls. She died during her pregnancy on March 31, 1855, in Haworth, Yorkshire. The Professor was posthumously published in…
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Her experiences at the school deeply affected Brontë - her health never recovered and she immortalised the cruel and brutal treatment in her novel, Jane Eyre. Following the tragedy, their father withdrew his daughters from the school. At home in Haworth Parsonage, Charlotte and the other surviving children — Branwell, Emily, and Anne ...
Charlotte Brontë' s Jane Eyre A Case Book
The first provides three overall interpretations of the novel that are excellent examples of the most common approach to Jane Eyre: a reading that explores the psychological development of the novel's eponymous heroine. The second section will introduce more novel approaches: a feminist reading of the novel, a depiction of the psyche in Jane ...
‎Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (ebook)
Charlotte Brontë's most beloved novel describes the passionate love between the courageous orphan Jane Eyre and the brilliant, brooding, and domineering Rochester. The loneliness and cruelty of Jane's childhood strengthens her natural independence and spirit, which prove invaluable when she takes a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall.
Lawson's Book Reviews
12 likes, 0 comments - lawson.reads on February 5, 2024: "5/5 stars Finishing January with another work of classic fiction, "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë. I first read Jane Eyre when I wa...". Lawson's Book Reviews | 5/5 stars Finishing January with another work of classic fiction, "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë.
Review: Alley Theatre's revamp of Charlotte Bronte's 'Jane Eyre ...
Review: Alley Theatre's revamp of Charlotte Bronte's 'Jane Eyre' is a breath of fresh air. I f you think the story of an orphaned and penniless governess, stranded in the middle of nowhere England ...
Is It a Red Flag? (Jane Eyre Edition)
Okay, yes. This is a red flag. But not because of what it says about his character; it just means he's not technically eligible. You'll need to wait things out until his current wife sets the house on fire, leaps off the roof, and makes him a one-handed, one-eyed, but officially available bachelor again. Jane Eyre.
Listen Free to Brontë Sisters Collection
Few families in history can boast of the incredible literary achievements of the Brontë sisters - Anne, Emily and Charlotte - who penned three of the most beloved novels ever written: Anne's 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall,' Emily's 'Wuthering Heights' and Charlotte's 'Jane Eyre.' <br /> Collected here are all three of these classic novels, plus a pair of essays penned by Charlotte fiercely ...
Used and Rare Book Marketplace
― Charlotte Bronte, "Jane Eyre". On this da...". Used and Rare Book Marketplace | "Life appears to me too short to be spent in nursing animosity or registering wrongs."
Online Book Store Tztz
1 likes, 0 comments - _readnrelax on April 1, 2024: " Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Genre: Romance , Classic Goodreads: (4.14/5) Charlotte Brontë tells the story of orphaned Jane Eyre...". Online Book Store Tztz | 📘Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Genre: Romance , Classic Goodreads: (4.14/5) Charlotte Brontë tells the story of orphaned Jane ...

By Charlotte Brontë

A Descriptive Tale on a Search for True Purpose

Providence Always Remembers the Upright

A Rollercoaster Ride of Love and Heartbreaks

How does Jane survive three days straight in the streets without money, shelter, or food?

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07 Oct Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre: In-depth Book Review and Analysis

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The 100 best novels: No 12 – Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë (1847)

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Other books by Charlotte Brontë

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Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë - Rating: 5/5 Stars

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Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

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Book Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

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Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

The 24th greatest book of all time

This book is on the following lists:

Coming of age

Charlotte Brontë’ s Jane Eyre A Case Book

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Publisher Description

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY APR 4, 2016

Customer Reviews

The world’s first soap opera

Jane Eyre was very good

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