8/30/10-Reply to "How Does Jane Survive?"

Jane is able to overcome difficulties in her life because she possesses a strong sense of self. Her sense of self is accompanied by her strong principles, which influence her choices, such as her decision not to be Rochester’s mistress when Bertha was discovered to be his wife. Jane knows that she has more self-worth than to be just Rochester’s mistress. Not only does she want to be Rochester’s “one-and-only”, she also believes that while Bertha is alive, loving Mr. Rochester would be considered adultery, and therefore, morally wrong. This balance of sense of self and moral fiber allows Jane to be assertive and speak her mind. As Rochester was trying to win her back, she “felt an inward power; a sense of influence which supported [her]” (Bronte 326). This inward power allowed her to declare her independence and successfully leave Rochester. This assertiveness is what makes Jane move forward in the novel. -Katie W.