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I mean, like the IDEA of independence througout the story, etc... I'm struggling to find anything else. Posted by sanmi on Jul 19, 2009. |
Jane Eyre Group
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I think that the lasting legacy of Jane Eyre is that it is one of the first feminist novels. The character of Jane (admittedly plain) does not follow the traditional literary conception of a woman having to be beautiful and conform to stereotypical identities in order to live a contented life. Throughout the novel we see instances of Jane's strength and perseverance, motivated by her own voice, her own mind, and her own sense of self. It is this idea, this conception of being a woman that is so profound in the novel. I don't think you are going to find numerous examples of this in literature of the time. In fact, one can say that the idea of Jane establishing her voice and appropriating the world in accordance to this idea is the driving force behind the book. Bronte writes a character that is of the equal level and capacity of a man. The idea that women can pursue lives of their own accord, of their own choice, and of their own passions and can be happy in doing so. Jane's happiness and spirit of contentment lies in the fulfillment of her own autonomy and freedom. This is a radical idea in literature of the time, and to some extent, is still quite revolutionary in its articulation. Posted by akannan on Jul 19, 2009. |
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In addition to discussing Jane's independence as a woman, you could also discuss the idea of gaining independence from one's culture. As you most likely know, the Victorian era was rife with strict social codes. Jane's whole manner of thinking about herself and her worth stems from the era in which she lives. Likewise, Rochester's struggle with what to do with his insane wife is intensified because of the Victorians' view of marriage, insanity, and social classes. While Jane strives to discover who she is and what she is capable of accomplishing, Rochester must also decide how to handle his secret, pressures to marry, etc. All issues that would not be so pressing if Rochester lived in a more modern time period. You can certainly find other examples of characters searching for their own independence in spite of the rigid Victorian system. Posted by scarletpimpernel on Jul 21, 2009. |
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Posted by suvetha on Aug 22, 2009. |
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What about the ideas of equality and love? Jane struggles to understand her place in society and will not be with Rochester until they are truly "equal" (and his wife is dead.) Why does Jane only consider herself Rochester's equal once she has inherited money and he has been disfigured? Is the "love" between Jane and Rochester really that at all, especially in the beginning? If Rochester truly loves Jane, why is he always finding little ways to change her? Why, for example, does he push her to buy fancy clothes when she is more comfortable in her drab ones? Posted by archteacher on Nov 26, 2009. |

