Jane Eyre | Charlotte Bronte |Cliff Note Books

“Jane Eyre” is a classic novel by Charlotte Brontë, first published in 1847. It follows the life of the protagonist, Jane Eyre, an orphan who is raised by her cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed. After enduring a difficult childhood, Jane is sent to Lowood Institution, a charity school for girls, where she gains an education and forms lasting friendships.

Upon completing her schooling, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she teaches Adele Varens, the young ward of the mysterious and brooding Mr. Edward Rochester. Jane and Mr. Rochester form a close bond, and despite their differences in social class and age, they fall in love. Their relationship faces numerous challenges, including a dark secret from Mr. Rochester’s past that threatens to tear them apart.

As Jane seeks independence and self-worth, she confronts societal norms and gender expectations of the Victorian era. The novel is a powerful exploration of love, morality, and the human spirit, with themes of self-discovery, social criticism, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

“Jane Eyre” is considered a literary masterpiece and a significant work within the Bildungsroman genre, as it focuses on the emotional and moral development of its protagonist.

“Jane Eyre” is considered a significant and highly studied piece of English literature for several reasons:

1. Innovative Narrative Style: Charlotte Brontë’s use of first-person narrative from Jane’s perspective allows readers to intimately experience her thoughts, feelings, and personal growth. This was a departure from the detached third-person narratives prevalent during the Victorian era and set a precedent for later novels.
2. Social Commentary: “Jane Eyre” provides valuable insight into the social norms, class distinctions, and gender expectations of the Victorian era. The novel critiques societal conventions and explores themes of inequality, injustice, and the importance of individuality.
3. Feminist Themes: Jane Eyre is a strong, independent, and self-reliant protagonist who defies gender expectations and challenges the patriarchal norms of her time. Her quest for autonomy, self-respect, and equality has resonated with readers for generations and has made the novel an important work in feminist literary studies.
4. Bildungsroman Genre: “Jane Eyre” is an influential example of the Bildungsroman, or coming-of-age, genre. The novel traces Jane’s emotional and moral development from childhood to adulthood, making it a powerful exploration of personal growth and self-discovery.
5. Complex Characters: The novel features well-developed, multi-dimensional characters with emotional depth and inner conflict. This depth of characterization invites readers to explore the complexities of human nature and relationships, making “Jane Eyre” a rich and engaging reading experience.
6. Gothic and Romantic Elements: “Jane Eyre” incorporates elements of Gothic fiction and Romanticism, blending mystery, supernatural occurrences, and emotional intensity. These elements contribute to the novel’s atmospheric and emotional impact, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
7. Universality and Timelessness: The themes of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment resonate with readers across generations and cultural backgrounds. “Jane Eyre” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless exploration of the human experience, making it a classic and enduring work of literature.

These factors, among others, have contributed to the enduring popularity and significance of “Jane Eyre” in the canon of English literature. The novel has been widely studied, analyzed, and celebrated for its groundbreaking narrative style, rich themes, and memorable characters.

What the Critics Say

“Jane Eyre” has been widely regarded as a significant and groundbreaking work of English literature since its publication in 1847. Critics have praised the novel for various reasons, including its complex characters, its exploration of social issues, and its innovative narrative structure. Here are some of the key points critics often discuss:

1. Feminism and gender roles: Critics have praised “Jane Eyre” for its portrayal of a strong, independent, and passionate female protagonist. Jane challenges the traditional expectations of women in her society by seeking independence, education, and self-fulfillment. The novel has been seen as an early feminist work that champions women’s rights and calls for greater gender equality.
2. Social criticism: The novel addresses various social issues, such as class inequality, the treatment of orphans, and the conditions of 19th-century charity schools. Critics have noted how Charlotte Brontë uses the novel to critique the rigid class system of Victorian England and to advocate for social reform.
3. The Byronic hero: Mr. Rochester, the male protagonist of the novel, is often seen as a prime example of the Byronic hero, a character type characterized by their mysterious, moody, and often morally ambiguous nature. Critics have examined how Rochester’s character both adheres to and challenges the conventions of the Byronic hero archetype.
4. Gothic and Romantic elements: “Jane Eyre” contains various Gothic and Romantic elements, such as the use of supernatural occurrences, mysterious secrets, and passionate emotions. Critics have explored how Brontë uses these literary traditions to create a rich and atmospheric novel that delves into the human psyche and the nature of love.
5. Narrative structure and style: The novel’s first-person narrative structure, which follows Jane’s life from childhood to adulthood, has been praised for its psychological depth and realism. Critics have noted how Brontë’s innovative narrative style allows readers to experience Jane’s thoughts and emotions firsthand, fostering a deep connection between the reader and the protagonist.

Overall, “Jane Eyre” has been highly regarded by critics for its compelling narrative, complex characters, and exploration of important social and psychological themes. The novel’s enduring popularity and its status as a classic work of English literature attest to its significance and impact.

Characters

Themes

Symbollism

Quotes

Author

Chapter Summaries

CHARACTERS

1. Jane Eyre: The protagonist and narrator of the novel. An orphan, she endures a difficult childhood before becoming a governess at Thornfield Hall. Jane is intelligent, passionate, and independent, with a strong moral compass and a desire for love and belonging.
2. Edward Rochester: The wealthy, brooding master of Thornfield Hall. He is Jane’s employer and eventual love interest. Despite his mysterious past and gruff exterior, he is drawn to Jane’s strength and honesty.
3. Mrs. Reed: Jane’s cruel and resentful aunt, who raises her after the death of her parents. She resents Jane and treats her poorly, eventually sending her to Lowood Institution.
4. Bertha Mason: Mr. Rochester’s secret wife, who suffers from severe mental illness. She is kept hidden in the attic at Thornfield Hall, and her existence is a major obstacle to Jane and Rochester’s happiness.
5. St. John Rivers: A clergyman who befriends Jane after she leaves Thornfield Hall. He is passionate about his missionary work and eventually proposes to Jane, offering her a life of duty and service.
6. Helen Burns: A fellow student at Lowood Institution and Jane’s close friend. Helen’s strong faith and acceptance of her hardships greatly influence Jane’s own beliefs and values.
7. Miss Maria Temple: A kind and compassionate teacher at Lowood Institution who supports and encourages Jane.
8. Mr. Brocklehurst: The hypocritical and cruel headmaster of Lowood Institution. He enforces harsh discipline and spartan living conditions while living in luxury himself.
9. Adele Varens: Mr. Rochester’s young French ward, whom Jane is hired to teach. Adele is lively and affectionate, and her relationship with Jane softens Rochester’s stern demeanor.
10. Diana and Mary Rivers: St. John Rivers’ sisters, who befriend and support Jane during her time away from Thornfield Hall. They help Jane regain her strength and find a sense of belonging.

These are the primary characters in “Jane Eyre.” However, the novel features many other minor characters who contribute to the development of the story and the growth of the protagonist.

THEMES

1. Love and Passion: The novel delves into the deep emotional connection between Jane and Mr. Rochester, showcasing the transformative power of love. Their love transcends societal norms and barriers, illustrating the importance of emotional bonds in personal fulfillment.
2. Social Class and Gender Inequality: Throughout the novel, Jane grapples with the limitations imposed on her by her social status and gender. The novel critiques Victorian society’s rigid class hierarchy and the subjugation of women, highlighting the importance of independence and self-reliance.
3. Morality and Religion: The characters in “Jane Eyre” navigate their lives through the lens of moral principles and religious beliefs. Jane’s moral compass guides her decisions, while other characters, like St. John Rivers and Helen Burns, represent different aspects of religious devotion.
4. Self-Discovery and Identity: Jane’s journey from childhood to adulthood is marked by her quest for self-discovery and personal identity. She strives to define herself independently of societal expectations and external influences, emphasizing the importance of individuality and self-determination.
5. Gothic and Supernatural Elements: “Jane Eyre” contains elements of the Gothic genre, including a gloomy and mysterious atmosphere, supernatural occurrences, and a brooding hero with a dark secret. These elements contribute to the novel’s exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and the unknown.
6. The Power of Nature: Throughout the novel, nature serves as a metaphor for emotional states and personal transformation. Nature often mirrors Jane’s emotions, reflecting her inner turmoil and eventual growth and healing.
7. The Role of Education: Jane’s education at Lowood Institution and her subsequent career as a governess highlight the importance of knowledge and learning. Education empowers Jane, enabling her to rise above her circumstances and achieve independence.

SYMBOLLISM

1. The Red Room: The room where Jane is locked as punishment by her aunt represents her feelings of imprisonment and isolation. It also foreshadows the emotional and physical confinement she encounters later in her life.
2. Bertha Mason: Bertha symbolizes the repressed and uncontrolled aspects of both Jane’s and Mr. Rochester’s personalities. She also represents the societal constraints on women during the Victorian era, as well as the dangers of suppressing one’s true self.
3. Fire and Ice: Fire represents passion, warmth, and vitality, while ice symbolizes coldness, rigidity, and death. These elements are often used to convey Jane’s emotional states and the tension between her desires and the constraints of society. Fire is also associated with destruction and rebirth, as seen in the fire at Thornfield Hall.
4. Birds: Throughout the novel, bird imagery symbolizes freedom, confinement, and the longing for escape. Jane often feels trapped by her circumstances and yearns for the freedom to choose her own path. The caged bird represents the confinement of women during the Victorian era, while the idea of flight signifies the possibility of breaking free from societal constraints.
5. The Chestnut Tree: The tree that is struck by lightning after Jane and Mr. Rochester’s engagement symbolizes the turbulent nature of their relationship and the obstacles they must overcome. The tree’s split trunk represents the division between them and foreshadows the separation they experience later in the story.
6. The Moon: The moon is a recurring symbol that represents guidance, feminine energy, and the cyclical nature of life. The moon appears at critical moments in the novel, illuminating Jane’s path and symbolizing her inner strength and resilience.
7. The Window and the Door: Windows and doors represent the barriers and thresholds that Jane must navigate throughout her journey. They symbolize the choices and limitations she encounters, as well as the opportunities for personal growth and transformation.

QUOTES

1. “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” (Chapter 23)

• Jane expresses her desire for autonomy and her resistance to being controlled or limited by societal expectations.

2. “Do you think I am an automaton? — a machine without feelings? and can bear to have my morsel of bread snatched from my lips, and my drop of living water dashed from my cup? Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! — I have as much soul as you, — and full as much heart!” (Chapter 23)

• Jane passionately asserts her humanity and equality to Mr. Rochester, highlighting her strong sense of self-worth.

3. “I would always rather be happy than dignified.” (Chapter 27)

• Jane’s preference for happiness over dignity reflects her values and desire for authentic relationships and experiences.

4. “Reader, I married him.” (Chapter 38)

• This simple and direct statement by Jane signals her independence and agency in choosing to marry Mr. Rochester, defying the conventional narrative of a woman being “given away” in marriage.

5. “Life appears to me too short to be spent in nursing animosity or registering wrongs.” (Chapter 6)

• Jane’s wisdom and willingness to forgive is evident in this quote, reflecting her capacity for empathy and understanding.

6. “It is in vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquility: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it.” (Chapter 12)

• This quote speaks to the human need for purpose, growth, and engagement with the world, a theme that permeates Jane’s journey.

7. “I would not now have exchanged Lowood with all its privations for Gateshead and its daily luxuries.” (Chapter 10)

• Jane’s appreciation for her education at Lowood demonstrates her resilience and the importance she places on personal growth and self-improvement, despite the challenges she faces.

AUTHOR

Charlotte Brontë was a 19th-century English novelist and poet, best known for her novel “Jane Eyre.” She was born on April 21, 1816, in Thornton, West Yorkshire, England, and was the third of six children born to Patrick Brontë, an Irish Anglican clergyman, and Maria Branwell Brontë.

In 1820, the family moved to Haworth, where Patrick was appointed as the perpetual curate of St. Michael and All Angels’ Church. After the death of their mother in 1821 and their two elder sisters in 1825, Charlotte, her younger sisters Emily and Anne, and their brother Branwell were raised primarily by their father and their maternal aunt, Elizabeth Branwell.

Charlotte and her siblings had a strong interest in literature, and their father encouraged their creativity by providing them with books and journals. The Brontë children often wrote stories and poems, creating imaginary worlds and characters.

In 1831, Charlotte was sent to the Clergy Daughters’ School at Cowan Bridge, a harsh and unhealthy environment that would later inspire the grim setting of Lowood Institution in “Jane Eyre.” She later attended Roe Head School, where she excelled academically and formed lasting friendships.

Charlotte briefly worked as a governess and a teacher, but her passion for writing led her to pursue a literary career. In 1846, she and her sisters published a collection of poems under the pseudonyms Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell to maintain their anonymity and avoid potential prejudice against female authors.

Charlotte’s first novel, “The Professor,” was completed in 1846 but was initially rejected by publishers. In 1847, she published “Jane Eyre” under the pseudonym Currer Bell, which quickly gained critical acclaim and commercial success. The novel’s success prompted speculation about the identity of the author, and in 1848, Charlotte revealed her true identity to her publisher.

Charlotte went on to publish two more novels, “Shirley” (1849) and “Villette” (1853), both of which received positive reviews and further solidified her reputation as a skilled and insightful author.

Tragedy struck the Brontë family when, between 1848 and 1849, Charlotte’s siblings Branwell, Emily, and Anne died in quick succession. Grief-stricken and alone, Charlotte continued to write and care for her aging father.

In 1854, Charlotte married Arthur Bell Nicholls, her father’s curate. Sadly, her marriage was short-lived, as she died on March 31, 1855, at the age of 38. The exact cause of her death remains uncertain, but it is believed that she may have died from complications related to pregnancy or from an illness such as tuberculosis or typhus.

Charlotte Brontë’s powerful and innovative narratives, compelling characters, and exploration of complex themes have made her an influential figure in English literature. Her works continue to be celebrated and studied for their enduring impact on the literary world.

CHAPTER SUMMARIES

Chapter 1: The novel begins with Jane Eyre, a young orphan, living with her cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her cousins, John, Eliza, and Georgiana, at Gateshead Hall. Jane is treated poorly by her aunt and cousins, who consistently belittle and punish her.

Chapter 2: Mrs. Reed punishes Jane by locking her in the red room, where her uncle had died. Jane is terrified and believes she sees her uncle’s ghost, leading her to have a hysterical fit.

Chapter 3: Jane is visited by Mr. Lloyd, an apothecary, after her fit. He recommends that Jane be sent away to school. Jane expresses her desire to leave Gateshead and eventually convinces her aunt to send her away.

Chapter 4: Arrangements are made for Jane to attend Lowood Institution, a charity school for orphaned girls. Jane overhears a conversation between Mrs. Reed and Mr. Brocklehurst, the head of Lowood, in which Mrs. Reed maligns Jane’s character.

Chapter 5: Jane arrives at Lowood Institution and encounters the harsh conditions and strict discipline of the school. She meets Helen Burns, a kind and intelligent older student, who befriends her and helps her navigate the challenges of Lowood.

Chapter 6: Jane learns more about Helen’s philosophy of forgiveness and endurance, which contrasts with her own sense of justice. She also meets Miss Temple, a kind and compassionate teacher who supports and encourages the students.

Chapter 7: Jane accidentally breaks a slate during class and is publicly humiliated by Mr. Brocklehurst. Miss Temple intervenes, inviting Jane and Helen to her room for tea and assuring Jane that she does not believe Mr. Brocklehurst’s accusations about her character.

Chapter 8: Life at Lowood gradually improves for Jane, as she excels academically and forms strong bonds with Helen and Miss Temple. However, a typhus outbreak occurs at the school, resulting in the death of many students, including Helen.

Chapter 9: Following the typhus outbreak, public scrutiny leads to improvements in the conditions at Lowood. Mr. Brocklehurst’s influence is diminished, and the school becomes a more nurturing environment.

Chapter 10: Jane spends eight years at Lowood, six as a student and two as a teacher. With Miss Temple’s departure to get married, Jane decides to seek new opportunities and advertises for a governess position. She is offered a position at Thornfield Hall, working for a Mr. Rochester.

These chapters set the stage for the rest of the novel, as Jane’s experiences at Gateshead and Lowood shape her character and pave the way for her future endeavors at Thornfield Hall.

Chapter 11: Jane arrives at Thornfield Hall and meets Mrs. Fairfax, the housekeeper, who she initially mistakes for her employer. She learns that her charge is a young French girl named Adèle Varens, and she begins her duties as a governess.

Chapter 12: Jane settles into her routine at Thornfield, teaching Adèle and exploring the house and grounds. One evening, while walking to the nearby village, she encounters a mysterious man who has fallen from his horse. She later discovers that he is Edward Rochester, her employer.

Chapter 13: Mr. Rochester returns to Thornfield, and Jane becomes acquainted with him. They engage in intellectually stimulating and challenging conversations, and Jane finds herself intrigued by his enigmatic nature.

Chapter 14: Jane learns more about Adèle’s background. Adèle is the daughter of a French singer and dancer who was once Mr. Rochester’s lover. Although Mr. Rochester is not convinced he is Adèle’s father, he took responsibility for her after her mother abandoned her.

Chapter 15: Mr. Rochester tells Jane a story about a past romantic entanglement that left him feeling betrayed and disillusioned. That night, Jane is awakened by eerie laughter outside her room and discovers Mr. Rochester’s bed curtains on fire. She extinguishes the fire and saves him, but he provides no explanation for the incident.

Chapter 16: Jane’s curiosity about the strange occurrences at Thornfield deepens. Mr. Rochester attributes the fire to a servant named Grace Poole but fails to provide further clarification. Jane’s feelings for Mr. Rochester grow, but she is unsure whether he reciprocates her affection.

Chapter 17: Thornfield Hall hosts a party, and Mr. Rochester’s social circle, including the beautiful and wealthy Blanche Ingram, arrives. Jane feels out of place among the elite guests and believes that Mr. Rochester is interested in marrying Blanche.

Chapter 18: A fortune-teller named Mrs. Reed visits Thornfield during the party and offers to read the fortunes of the female guests. Jane’s fortune hints at her feelings for Mr. Rochester and suggests that there may be obstacles in her path.

Chapter 19: Jane discovers that the fortune-teller was actually Mr. Rochester in disguise. He admits to testing the character of his guests and learns that Jane is not motivated by jealousy or envy.

Chapter 20: Jane receives word that her Aunt Reed is gravely ill and requests her presence. Mr. Rochester reluctantly allows Jane to visit her aunt. Before she leaves, he proposes a hypothetical situation in which Jane could potentially stay with him as his companion, hinting at his feelings for her.

These chapters delve into the growing emotional connection between Jane and Mr. Rochester, as well as the mysterious events that surround Thornfield Hall. The complex nature of their relationship and the secrets of the estate set the stage for further developments in the story.

Chapter 21: Jane travels to Gateshead to visit her dying Aunt Reed. She attempts to reconcile with her aunt, but Mrs. Reed remains bitter and resentful. Before passing away, Mrs. Reed reveals that she withheld information about a wealthy uncle who had wanted to adopt Jane, thus denying her a more comfortable life.

Chapter 22: Jane reconnects with her cousins Eliza and Georgiana at Gateshead, observing the differences in their personalities and priorities. She receives a letter from Mr. Rochester, which raises her spirits and rekindles her feelings for him.

Chapter 23: After staying with her cousins for a month, Jane returns to Thornfield. She and Mr. Rochester confess their love for each other, and he proposes marriage. Jane accepts, despite her concerns about their social and financial differences.

Chapter 24: Jane struggles with her feelings of insecurity regarding her engagement to Mr. Rochester. She is disturbed by a strange dream and an eerie visitation from a mysterious woman who tears her wedding veil.

Chapter 25: On the day of Jane’s wedding, the ceremony is interrupted by the revelation that Mr. Rochester is already married to a woman named Bertha Mason, who has been living in the attic at Thornfield under the care of Grace Poole. Bertha is revealed to be the source of the mysterious incidents at the estate.

Chapter 26: Devastated by the truth, Jane refuses to become Mr. Rochester’s mistress. He tries to justify his actions by explaining the circumstances of his marriage to Bertha, who suffers from severe mental illness. However, Jane remains firm in her decision to leave Thornfield.

Chapter 27: Jane departs from Thornfield in the middle of the night, taking only a small amount of money and leaving most of her possessions behind. She travels as far as her money will take her and finds herself destitute and alone in the countryside.

Chapter 28: Exhausted, hungry, and cold, Jane seeks help from various households but is turned away. Eventually, she collapses on the doorstep of a small house, where she is discovered by a kind family.

Chapter 29: The family, comprised of two sisters, Diana and Mary Rivers, and their brother, St. John Rivers, takes Jane in and nurses her back to health. They are all well-educated and share an interest in missionary work. Jane conceals her true identity and background, introducing herself as “Jane Elliott.”

Chapter 30: Jane begins to rebuild her life with the help of the Rivers siblings. She finds work as a schoolteacher in a small village nearby, while St. John pursues his missionary ambitions. Jane continues to keep her past a secret but forms strong bonds with her new friends.

These chapters chronicle Jane’s emotional turmoil, her confrontation with the truth about Mr. Rochester, and her journey towards independence and self-discovery as she starts a new life with the Rivers family.

Chapter 31: Jane continues to work as a schoolteacher in the village of Morton, supported by St. John Rivers, who serves as the village clergyman. Jane becomes increasingly aware of St. John’s strict and austere nature, while she grows closer to his sisters, Diana and Mary.

Chapter 32: St. John visits Jane one evening and reveals that he has been researching her true identity. He has discovered that her uncle, John Eyre, has passed away, leaving her a fortune of 20,000 pounds. Jane is astonished by the news and decides to share her inheritance equally among herself and the Rivers siblings, who she learns are her cousins.

Chapter 33: St. John decides to travel to India as a missionary and asks Jane to accompany him, not as a sister or assistant, but as his wife. Jane, who respects and admires St. John but does not love him, refuses his proposal.

Chapter 34: St. John persists in his attempts to persuade Jane to marry him and accompany him to India, but Jane remains firm in her refusal. She is torn between her loyalty to her cousin and her desire for a life based on love and passion.

Chapter 35: One night, Jane hears Mr. Rochester’s voice calling her name, and she interprets this as a sign that she must return to Thornfield. She decides to visit Thornfield before making a final decision about St. John’s proposal.

Chapter 36: Upon reaching Thornfield, Jane discovers that the estate has been burned down by Bertha Mason, who perished in the fire. Mr. Rochester, who tried to save Bertha, has survived but has been left blind and with a severely injured hand.

Chapter 37: Jane locates Mr. Rochester at Ferndean, a remote and isolated house in the woods. She reunites with him, and they confess their enduring love for each other. Jane learns that Mr. Rochester’s wife, Bertha, died in the fire, and they are free to marry.

Chapter 38: Jane and Mr. Rochester marry and begin a life together at Ferndean. Mr. Rochester slowly regains some of his sight, and they have a son. Diana and Mary Rivers find happiness in their respective marriages, while St. John Rivers devotes the rest of his life to missionary work in India.

These final chapters bring the story of Jane Eyre to a satisfying conclusion, as Jane finds love, family, and financial security. Her enduring strength, resilience, and determination to follow her heart ultimately lead her to a life of happiness and fulfillment.