JANE EYRE QUESTIONS

1. In the first four chapters, Jane Eyre is living with the Reeds at Gateshead.
Who are they and how do they treat Jane?
How old is Jane then and what kind of child is she?
What happens in the red room?
What themes and other elements are present in these chapters that will be
later developed in the novel?

In the opening chapters of Jane Eyre, Jane lives with the Reed family at Gateshead Hall.
The Reeds are her relatives through her late uncle, Mr. Reed, who had taken her in as an
orphan and made Mrs. Reed promise to care for her before his death. The family includes
Mrs. Sarah Reed and her children: Eliza, Georgiana, and John. They all treat Jane with
extreme cruelty, viewing her as a burden. John Reed is particularly abusive, frequently
insulting and hitting Jane.

At ten years old, Jane shows maturity and insight uncommon for her age due to her
harsh experiences. She is portrayed as sensitive, highly intelligent, and strong-willed, with
a profound sense of self-respect and justice. Her awareness of the injustices she suffers is
evident when she confronts John Reed, leading to her punishment in the red room.

The red room incident is crucial, symbolizing Jane's extreme isolation and fear. The room,
associated with her uncle Reed's death, terrifies Jane, causing her to faint from the
trauma. This event highlights Charlotte Brontë's use of Gothic elements to enhance the
emotional intensity of the narrative.

Themes introduced include social class and inequality, highlighted by Jane's inferior
status in the Reed household. This theme recurs as Jane navigates different social
settings, such as Lowood School and Thornfield Hall. Additionally, the theme of seeking
love and belonging is introduced, with Jane's desire for familial affection and approval at
Gateshead setting the stage for her lifelong quest for a place where she feels valued and
cherished. This pursuit shapes her interactions with characters like Helen Burns, Miss
Temple, and Mr. Rochester.

The novel also foreshadows the inclusion of more Gothic elements, exemplified by the red
room, which add to the emotional depth and tension of Jane's experiences.

2. Chapters 5-10 show Jane’s stay at Lowood. What kind of place is that?
What are Mr. Brocklehurst, Miss Temple and Helen Burns like?
How many years does Jane stay there?
What does she gain from her years there?
What themes are developed in this part of the novel, and which are
introduced?
In Chapters 5-10 of Jane Eyre, Lowood is shown as a strict charitable institution for
orphaned girls, marked by rigid routines and modest living conditions. It offers refuge
and education to girls like Jane.

Mr. Brocklehurst is the austere and authoritarian manager of Lowood. He is depicted as a

hypocritical and self-righteous figure. He enforces his view of sacrificing immediate
gratification or material comforts for the sake of spiritual or moral growth. However, he
and his family are surrounded by luxuries. His doctrine is based on suffering and
deprivation, making the situation at Lowood terrible in that sense.
Miss Temple, on the other hand, serves as a compassionate and nurturing influence at
Lowood. She is the superintendent of the school and is admired by the students for her
kindness, fairness, and dedication to their welfare. Miss Temple provides a contrast to Mr.
Brocklehurst's severity, offering support and encouragement to the girls under her care.

Helen Burns is a fellow student at Lowood and becomes a close friend and confidante to
Jane. She is characterized by her serene acceptance of hardship and her devout
religious faith. She helped Jane to mature somehow and inspired her to face the
adversities from another perspective.

Jane stays at Lowood for six years, from the age of ten to sixteen. During her time there,
she undergoes significant personal and intellectual growth. She receives a formal
education, develops close friendships, and learns valuable lessons about resilience,
compassion, and the power of self-reliance. Additionally, Jane gains a sense of
independence and autonomy as she matures into a young woman capable of making her
own decisions.

Continuing Themes:

● Social Class: Although Lowood is more egalitarian, class distinctions still impact
interactions, especially in how Mr. Brocklehurst treats students from poor
backgrounds.
● Search for Love and Belonging: Jane's quest for love and belonging deepens
through her meaningful relationships with Helen Burns and Miss Temple.

New Themes:

● Social Criticism: Inspired by Charlotte Brontë's experiences, the novel critiques the
harsh conditions in charity schools like Lowood, highlighting the need for reform.
● Religious Hypocrisy: Mr. Brocklehurst's hypocrisy, preaching self-denial while living
in luxury, emphasizes the theme of religious hypocrisy..

3. Chapters 11-27 tell the story of Jane Eyre in Thornfield. Why does she go
there?
What kind of treatment does she receive there?
Who are Mrs Fairfax and Adèle?
 In Chapters 11-27 of Jane Eyre, Jane Eyre goes to Thornfield. During her final years
at Lowood, Jane thrives academically and personally. She excels in her studies
and eventually becomes a teacher at the school. Her role as a teacher signifies her
growth and maturation, as well as her increasing independence.
Jane's departure from Lowood is motivated by her desire for new experiences and
greater autonomy, and perhaps also after knowing Mrs. Temple leaves the school
to get married. At the age of eighteen, she secures a position as a governess at
Thornfield Hall, marking the end of her time at Lowood and the beginning of a new
chapter in her life.

Mrs. Fairfax serves as the housekeeper of Thornfield and becomes a supportive

and motherly figure to Jane. She is kind and hospitable, providing Jane with
guidance and companionship during her time there.

Adèle Varens is Mr. Rochester's young ward, a vivacious and charming French girl
who forms a close bond with Jane, and who also is her governess.

4. How is Jane’s first meeting with Mr Rochester presented? What was your
first impression of him?
How does he behave with Jane and the other characters in the first
chapters of this part of the story?
What is the significance of the episode in which Jane rescues her master
from the fire in his room?

Jane's initial encounter with Mr. Rochester is a dramatic and unexpected one, occurring
on the road near Thornfield when his horse slips on ice. Despite not knowing his identity,
Jane assists the injured stranger, setting the tone for their complex relationship.

My first impression of Edward Rochester is that of an enigmatic and authoritative figure.

His abruptness and commanding presence leave a strong impression, portraying him as
both compelling and somewhat intimidating, indicating someone accustomed to control.
Initially, he treats Jane and other characters with condescension and moodiness.
However, as the story progresses, his attitude towards Jane evolves, showing curiosity and
respect for her honesty, wit, and strong sense of self. While maintaining formality with
others, he reveals a softer side when interacting with Adèle.

The episode where Jane rescues Mr. Rochester from the fire in his room holds significant
meaning. It strengthens their bond, showcasing Jane's bravery, quick thinking, and loyalty.
This act marks a shift in their relationship from employer and employee to something
deeper. Additionally, the fire symbolizes the hidden dangers and secrets within Thornfield
Hall, foreshadowing revelations about Mr. Rochester's past and the existence of Bertha
Mason.

Lastly, the scene can be viewed as a Gothic element, warning of the turbulent emotions
and dark secrets lurking beneath Thornfield's calm facade. It adds depth to the narrative,
hinting at the unsettling truths yet to be uncovered.
 5. Chapters 17-20 show Rochester as a host to a group of upper-class guests. What
are those people like?
How do Blanche Ingram and her mother treat Jane?
What kind of relationship is there between Blanche and Rochester?
Why does he dress up as a gypsy woman?

The upper-class guests at Thornfield Hall epitomize the aristocratic values and behaviors
of the time, displaying superficiality, self-centeredness, and a fixation on social status.
Their behavior contrasts sharply with Jane's modesty, intellect, and moral integrity,
highlighting the class differences and values they represent.

Blanche Ingram and her mother treat Jane with condescension and disdain, reflecting
the discrimination and isolation Jane experiences within Thornfield Hall. Blanche, in
particular, looks down on Jane due to her lower social status as a governess, making
derogatory remarks and treating her as insignificant.

The relationship between Blanche Ingram and Mr. Rochester is characterized by mutual
superficial attraction and social convenience rather than genuine affection. Blanche sees
Mr. Rochester as a means of securing her own social position and financial stability, while
Mr. Rochester uses his apparent courtship of Blanche to gauge Jane's feelings towards
him.

Mr. Rochester's disguise as a gypsy woman serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows him
to gather personal insights from his guests without their awareness, observing their
reactions and attitudes more clearly. Secondly, when Jane consults the gypsy, Mr.
Rochester in disguise, he probes into her thoughts and emotions, deepening their
connection and understanding of each other. This masquerade enhances the emotional
and psychological dynamics between Jane and Mr. Rochester.

6. In Chapters 21 and 22 Jane goes back to Gateshead to visit her dying aunt.
What does she learn there?
Does Mrs Reed’s attitude change? And Jane’s?

When Jane returns to Gateshead in Chapters 21 and 22 to visit her dying aunt, Mrs. Reed,
she is confronted with a mixture of old grievances and new revelations. The return to
Gateshead allows Jane to confront her past and the painful memories associated with
her childhood.

Jane learns from Mrs. Reed that she has an uncle, John Eyre, who had once sought to
adopt her. Mrs. Reed, out of spite and resentment, had concealed this information from
Jane and told John Eyre that Jane had died of typhus at Lowood. This revelation is
significant because it later opens up new possibilities for Jane's future.

Mrs. Reed’s attitude towards Jane remains largely unchanged in terms of warmth and
affection. Even on her deathbed, Mrs. Reed struggles with feelings of jealousy and
resentment toward Jane. She does not express genuine remorse or seek reconciliation in
a heartfelt manner. However, her willingness to reveal the letter and confess her deceit
suggests a grudging acknowledgment of her wrongdoings.
Jane’s attitude towards Mrs. Reed evolves during this visit. Despite the bitterness and
cruelty she faced from her aunt, Jane approaches Mrs. Reed with a sense of compassion
and forgiveness.

7. In Chapter 23, Rochester proposes marriage to Jane. Analyse Jane’s reaction,

the setting, and the storm at night. What happens in the wedding? Who is Bertha
Mason? How does she compare to Jane? Can you sympathise with her? Do you
think she may symbolise something in the novel? If so, what? Why does Jane leave
Thornfield?

Jane's reaction to Mr. Rochester's proposal encompasses disbelief, joy, and emotional
turmoil. Initially, she suspects he is mocking her, unable to fathom that someone of his
social stature would genuinely want to marry her. When she realizes his sincerity, she
experiences overwhelming happiness but is also conflicted by the societal and moral
implications of their union.

The setting of the proposal beneath the chestnut tree in the garden holds deep
symbolism. However, the ensuing storm foreshadows the turbulent events to come, with
thunder and lightning symbolizing the unpredictability of fate. The storm's climax,
resulting in the splitting of the chestnut tree, signifies the division and destruction that
will challenge their relationship, serving as a Gothic element emphasizing chaos and the
capriciousness of life.

During the wedding ceremony, a dramatic revelation disrupts proceedings as Mr. Mason
and a solicitor reveal Mr. Rochester's existing marriage to Bertha Mason, still alive and
residing at Thornfield. This revelation devastates Jane, shattering her dreams of a future
with Mr. Rochester.

Bertha Mason, Mr. Rochester's first wife, is depicted as mentally ill and confined in
Thornfield's attic under Grace Poole's care. While often portrayed as monstrous, it is
possible to sympathize with her plight. Bertha's confinement symbolizes societal attempts
to control and silence women who did not conform, reflecting the era's limited
understanding and mistreatment of mental health issues.

Bertha's existence serves as a reminder of the importance of truth and integrity in

relationships. Her confinement highlights the corrosive effects of secrets and dishonesty,
prompting Jane to prioritize honesty and self-respect over her happiness, ultimately
choosing to leave Thornfield. This decision underscores the novel's exploration of societal
expectations and the consequences of deception.

8. Chapters 28-35 show Jane’s stay with the Rivers at Marsh End and Morton.
What are St John, Diana and Mary like? What good news does she get from St
John? Why does she reject his marriage proposal? How does St John compare to
Rochester?

In Chapters 28-35, Jane stays with the Rivers at Marsh End and Morton. St John Rivers,
along with his sisters Diana and Mary, are depicted as disciplined, and dedicated
individuals. St John is characterized by his fervent religious devotion and ambition for
missionary work. Diana and Mary, while also devout, exhibit warmth and kindness towards
Jane.

St John delivers the unexpected good news that Jane has inherited a substantial fortune
from her uncle, John Eyre of Madeira, which is also his familiar (since all of them are
cousins). This inheritance transforms Jane's prospects and offers her financial
independence.

Despite St John's proposal of marriage, Jane ultimately rejects him. While she admires his
virtues and appreciates his offer of companionship and support, she realizes that her
feelings for him lack the depth of love required for marriage. Furthermore, she refuses to
sacrifice her autonomy and passion for a loveless union based solely on duty and
obligation.
While Rochester embodies passion, complexity, and emotional depth, St John prioritizes
his missionary aspirations above personal desires, which make Jane feel sure to reject
him since she want a love relationship based on mutual love and respect, not
convenience.

9. Chapters 36-38 show the fifth phase in Jane’s life: her reunion with Rochester at
Ferndean. Why does she go back to him and accepts marrying him now? What is
their married life like? What is your opinion of the ending? Have your impressions
about Jane and Rochester changed throughout the narrative?

In Chapters 36-38, the fifth phase of Jane Eyre's life unfolds with her reunion with Mr.
Rochester at Ferndean. Jane decides to return to Rochester after a series of significant
realizations and events.

Firstly, Jane learns of the fire at Thornfield, which has drastically altered Mr. Rochester's
circumstances. The blaze, set by Bertha Mason, led to her death and left Rochester
injured, causing him to lose his eyesight and a hand. This tragedy profoundly humbles
and transforms him. Jane, now financially independent and emotionally mature, feels free
to return to him, as the barriers that once separated them are no longer there.

Jane accepts Rochester's proposal now because their relationship can finally be built on
equal terms. She no longer feels inferior or dependent. Rochester, having been chastened
by his experiences, no longer holds the same authoritative demeanor but instead
approaches Jane with a newfound humility and vulnerability.

The conclusion of Jane Eyre left me deeply satisfied and reflective. Jane's reunion with Mr.
Rochester at Ferndean represents a culmination of her long and arduous journey toward
self-realization and true love. One of the most compelling aspects of this ending is the
profound transformation that both characters undergo.

Jane's decision to return to Rochester signifies not only her love but also her newfound
sense of independence and self-worth. Throughout the novel, she evolves from a
vulnerable, mistreated orphan into a strong, self-reliant woman who remains true to her
principles. This transformation is inspiring. In the case of Mr. Rochester, His physical
injuries from the fire serve as a metaphor for his emotional and moral rebirth. The once
proud and domineering Rochester becomes more humble and introspective, recognizing
his past mistakes and approaching Jane as an equal. Somehow they became each other’s
salvation.

It suggests that true happiness is found in equality and mutual respect, themes that
resonate strongly in today’s context as well.

10. How does this novel deal with themes such as love, marriage, and family?

LOVE
Jane's love for Mr. Rochester is central to the story, depicted as a passionate yet complex
bond that transcends social class and physical appearance. Their relationship is marked
by mutual respect and intellectual equality, rather than superficial attraction or
convenience. The novel emphasizes that true love is based on genuine connection, shared
values, and emotional honesty.Jane's love for her friends at Lowood, particularly Helen
Burns and Miss Temple, also plays a significant role in her development. These
relationships highlight the importance of compassion, support, and moral guidance.

FAMILY
The theme of family is intricately woven throughout the novel, exploring both the pain of
familial rejection and the joy of finding a true sense of belonging. Jane’s early experiences
with the Reed family are marked by cruelty and neglect, underscoring the impact of a
loveless household on her development. In contrast, her time with the Rivers siblings,
particularly Diana and Mary, provides her with a sense of family that is based on mutual
support and affection.

She learns about her own family background and gains financial independence, sharing
part of her inheritance with her newfound relatives, which strengthens their bond and
highlights the importance of family connections.

MARRIAGE
Marriage in Jane Eyre is portrayed as an institution that should be based on equality,
respect, and mutual understanding. The novel critiques marriages of convenience and
those based solely on social status or economic gain, as seen in the superficial
relationship between Mr. Rochester and Blanche Ingram. Jane's refusal to become Mr.
Rochester's mistress after learning about Bertha Mason demonstrates her commitment to
moral integrity and self-respect.

11. How does the novel present society and the situation of women in
nineteenth-century England?

Jane Eyre critiques the hierarchical and patriarchal structure of Victorian society, where
social class and gender roles dictated individuals' opportunities and behaviors. The novel
portrays the rigid class distinctions and societal expectations that constrained people's
lives, particularly those of women and the lower classes.

At Gateshead, Jane faces disdain from her relatives due to her lack of wealth and social
standing. Charlotte Brontë also highlights societal hypocrisy, such as Mr. Brocklehurst's
preaching of humility and devotion while enjoying luxuries himself. Thornfield further
illustrates the influence of money, as seen in Blanche Ingram's pursuit of Mr. Rochester for
material gain.

Women in the novel are expected to conform to traditional gender roles, limiting their
education and opportunities. Jane's journey reflects the struggle of women to assert their
independence and equality in a male-dominated society. The contrast between Jane's
plainness and the beauty of characters like Blanche Ingram underscores societal values
placed on appearance.

Bertha Mason symbolizes society's tendency to stigmatize and marginalize women who
do not conform to expected norms, particularly regarding mental health. Her portrayal
reflects the era's misunderstanding and mistreatment of mental illness in women at that
moment. She was enclosed on an attic, it makes sense she could feel isolated and hid
from the rest of the world. Perhaps that madness to certain extent logic.

12. How is religion presented in the novel? To what extent is Jane’s idea and
experience of religion different from that of Mr. Brocklehurst, Helen Burns and St
John Rivers?

For Jane Eyre, religion serves as a source of solace and moral guidance, but her
understanding differs from that of other characters in the novel. Jane's religious beliefs
are deeply personal and rooted in her innate sense of morality and justice. She values
sincerity and compassion over rigid adherence to religious doctrine.

Mr. Brocklehurst represents a more authoritarian and hypocritical form of religion. He

uses religion as a tool for control and manipulation, enforcing strict rules and punishing
those who deviate from his narrow interpretation of morality. His version of Christianity is
characterized by austerity, self-denial, and judgment.

Helen Burns embodies a gentle and accepting form of Christianity, marked by forgiveness
and humility. She finds comfort and strength in her faith, even in the face of hardship and
suffering. She inspires Jane on that sense; in some scenes at Lowood, Jane was
scandalised by the way teachers as Scatcherd treated her and she was telling her always
to rebel herschel. Nevertheless, Hene used to endure all this by implying its for her good,
and her faith somehow saves her.

St. John Rivers represents a more missionary form of Christianity. His faith is
characterized by self-sacrifice and devotion to duty, leading him to pursue a life of
service as a missionary abroad. Unlike Jane, St. John's religious beliefs are driven by a
sense of duty and obligation rather than personal conviction or empathy.

14. How does the author incorporate elements from Gothic fiction and fairly tales
into the narrative? Can this novel be considered a Bildungsroman?
Gothic Elements

1. Thornfield Hall: The imposing and mysterious Thornfield Hall serves as a

quintessential Gothic setting, with its dark corridors, hidden passages, and sense
of foreboding. The presence of the attic, where Bertha Mason is confined, adds to
the atmosphere of mystery and danger.
2. The Red Room: The red room at Gateshead Hall is another Gothic element,
symbolizing confinement, fear, and the protagonist's psychological turmoil. Jane's
traumatic experience in the red room foreshadows the darker events to come and
underscores the novel's exploration of psychological and emotional themes.
3. Bertha Mason: Bertha's characterization as a madwoman locked away in the attic
aligns with Gothic tropes of madness and confinement. Her presence adds an
element of horror and suspense to the narrative, while also serving as a symbol of
repressed desires and societal oppression.

Fairy Tale Elements

1. Jane's Journey: Jane Eyre's journey from a disadvantaged and oppressed orphan
to an independent and self-assured woman parallels the archetypal hero's journey
found in many fairy tales. Her resilience, courage, and eventual triumph over
adversity evoke themes of transformation and empowerment.
2. Romantic Tropes: The romance between Jane and Mr. Rochester contains elements
of the classic fairy tale romance, with its themes of love overcoming obstacles and
the idea of a "happily ever after."

Jane Eyre can indeed be considered a Bildungsroman, or a novel of development and

growth. The narrative follows Jane's journey of self-discovery and maturation, tracing her
evolution from a vulnerable and mistreated child to a confident and independent woman.
Throughout the novel, Jane encounters various challenges and obstacles that force her
to confront her own values, beliefs, and desires. Her experiences at Gateshead, Lowood,
Thornfield led her to assert her own autonomy and agency as a woman.