Jane's childhood was dysfunctional and emotionally abusive, with her aunt Sara Reed continually degrading her, and dying with no repentance of her mistreating Jane. Jane had to cope with her nasty and spoiled cousins, one of whom gave his life to gambling and drinking, and then killed himself. John Reed didn't give himself any worth, and I feel that Jane took something from that and made a point of treating herself the way she felt she deserved, and finding someone who would do the same for her. Also because of her loveless childhood, and 8 years of school, every hint of empathy or sincerity she saw in others was amplified and very appreciated.
Jane distinguishes herself at Lowood because of her intellectual abilities and hard work. She develops a strong sense of self, and trusts her capabilities. When Rochester admits to her that she is indeed his mistress, she is torn and distraught, yet "forgave him immediately". Her wish to be loved was broken, and it became her intolerable duty to ask of his departure. Out of self worth and strong principles, she knew she must leave him immediately, and shouldn't be expected to remain his wife.
"I care for myself. The more solitary, the more friendless, the more unsustained I am, the more I will respect myself... I will hold to the principles recieved by me when I was sane, and not mad - as I am now." [pg. 365]
Jane had finally found an inner power in leaving him that supported her, and gave her absolute independence and the ability to be self-sustaining. This victory is what allowed her to return to Rochester, and "be happy in the end".
Absolutely. You demonstrate a handle on the major themes of the novel; you just need a little polish in your presentation. Quotes need to be incorporated into sentences, and active voice needs to be employed at all times (Jane's childhood is).
ReplyDeleteWas Jane looking for someone who would treat her right(in a romantic sense)? If so, when did she begin her search?
ReplyDeletep.s. Thank's for your comment.
Yes in a romantic sense, but mostly just overall affection that she was deprived of as a child. Good question also, but whether it was conscious or subconscious, I think she begins her search once she separates herself from Sara Reed. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteYes, a response! I think that at first Jane was looking for an escape from Gateshead. Then after Temple's departure, she searches for a purpose. It seems to me that the romance sort of fell into her lap.
ReplyDeleteYeah that's definitely true. That's what I'm thinking when I say affection more so than romance. The romance was more of an excuse to create conflict and bring out character traits. She was trying to escape Gateshead to find someone who'd understand her and make her feel more secure though, and in this case, that was a hubbie.
ReplyDeleteWell done, I'm amused.
ReplyDelete