The central conflict of Jane Eyre concerns Jane fighting to assert her independence and identity despite the societal conventions of the time and despite the constant attempts of the people around her to mold her behavior to their own expectations, especially as a woman.

In Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre, family is portrayed as both toxic and supportive, emphasizing that biological ties do not guarantee loving relationships. Jane's early life with the Reeds is harsh, but she finds nurturing connections at Lowood School with figures like Helen Burns and Miss Temple. Ultimately, Jane forms her own family with Mr. Rochester, highlighting Brontë's argument that true family requires mutual respect and love, not just blood relations.

Rochester and St. John serve as foils in Jane Eyre by embodying the themes of passion versus reason. Rochester represents "feeling without judgment," characterized by his fiery, passionate nature and troubled past. In contrast, St. John embodies "judgment untempered by feeling," with his cold, rational demeanor and austere lifestyle. Rochester sees Jane as an equal, while St. John holds a patriarchal view. Their differing attitudes towards marriage further highlight these contrasting qualities.

Oppression in Jane Eyre is pervasive, reflecting the unjust treatment of women and children in 19th-century England. Jane experiences oppression from a young age, starting with her mistreatment by her cousin John and Aunt Reed. At school, Mr. Brocklehurst humiliates her, and later, Mr. Rochester and St. John Rivers manipulate her. Despite these challenges, Jane asserts her independence and resists the societal pressures to conform.

Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre explores themes such as the importance of adhering to moral values, the role of religion, and the societal constraints on women. It contrasts harsh, judgmental religious practices with those based on charity and self-sacrifice, as seen in characters like Helen Burns. Jane Eyre's journey reflects the struggle for personal autonomy and the right to follow one's conscience, challenging societal norms and advocating for women's independence.

Imagery and symbolism in Jane Eyre are used to explore themes like marriage and emotional turmoil. Fire symbolizes passion and destruction, exemplified by Bertha's actions, indicating her tumultuous relationship with Rochester. The "mad woman in the attic" imagery highlights confinement and latent power. Weather and nature reflect characters' emotions and foreshadow events, with Gothic elements like dark passages and lonely landscapes enhancing suspense and inner conflict, as seen in Jane's first meeting with Rochester.

The significance of education in "Jane Eyre" is profound, serving as a means of self-empowerment and social mobility. It reflects themes of independence and personal growth. Jane's experiences at Lowood School and as a governess highlight the limited opportunities for women and the importance of education in overcoming social constraints and achieving self-respect and autonomy.

Short stories with themes similar to those in Jane Eyre include those in the anthology Reader, I Married Him, edited by Tracy Chevalier, where contemporary authors explore themes of determination, resilience, and femininity. Kate Chopin's "The Story of an Hour" and "The Storm" also delve into gender roles and marriage. "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman examines mental illness, aligning with Brontë's themes. Flannery O'Connor's "A Good Man is Hard to Find" shares the theme of atonement.

Jane has a strong sense of dignity and independence even as a child. She is taken from her aunt’ home as a child for being too strong willed. When she says her aunt treats her like a servant, her aunt says that she is worse than a servant because she does nothing to earn her keep. At school, Jane is introduced to the hypocrisy of religion. The school expects her to act in a Christian manner while treating her in the most unchristian ways. Children die and no one cares. No one listens to her when they are told she is a liar. It is a lonely life for Jane, but she remains independent and practices her own form of piety.

Marriage in Jane Eyre is a central theme that underscores the struggle for equality and independence. Jane seeks a partnership based on mutual respect and emotional connection, rather than social status or convenience. The novel highlights the importance of marrying for love and equality, rather than succumbing to societal pressures or economic necessity.

Charlotte Brontë explores the theme of loss and grief in Jane Eyre through Jane's personal experiences, presenting it as one of the novel's strongest themes. This theme is illustrated by Jane's growth as she navigates loss and grief, contrasted with other themes like identity and morality. While some may argue other themes are more prominent, the novel's depiction of Jane's resilience in the face of personal losses highlights the significance of this theme.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë explores several key themes, including the struggle for self-truth and integrity, the conflict between passion and reason, and the rigid class structure of Victorian society. The novel portrays Jane's development from a passionate, uncontrollable girl to a self-aware, principled woman. Themes of love, independence, and equality are central, with Jane seeking a balance between her desires and moral principles. Her feminist journey challenges societal norms, emphasizing autonomy and inner strength.

In Jane Eyre, themes of forgiveness and motivation are prominent. Mrs. Reed seeks Jane's forgiveness not only for personal reconciliation but also due to her religious beliefs, fearing divine judgment. She also reveals a crucial letter from Jane's uncle, John Eyre, about her inheritance. Jane embodies forgiveness, forgiving Mrs. Reed, Mr. Rochester for his deceptions, and St. John Rivers for his marriage proposal. Her maturity and newfound security allow her to forgive, showcasing her moral superiority.

The theme of loneliness in Jane Eyre is explored through Jane's solitary experiences and internal monologues. Her soliloquies reveal her innermost thoughts and struggles, emphasizing her isolation and desire for connection. This introspective narrative style allows readers to deeply understand Jane's emotional journey and the profound impact of loneliness on her character development.