1. What is your initial opinion of Jane? What aspects of the narrative help to develop this opinion? What can you determine about her character by her statements and her surrounding?
When the name Jane Eyre comes to mind, I sense pure innocence. This is because of her young blameless mind. Her character portrays true passion, honesty, and strength; which are all essences that I admire and therefore make me realize what a dominant young lady she is. At first, during the opening chapter, I was unable to grasp and understand her true character but instead I felt pity for all her suffering and misfortunes. Unfortunately due to inexorable circumstances, poor Jane Eyre was sent to live with her prejudiced family members, where she is forced to deal with abusive and uncouthly situations. Jane is forced to believe that she is unworthy, such as in chapter 2 on page 18 she is told “you are less than a servant, for you do nothing for your keep.” These incidents that take place regarding Jane and her family (in particular between her aunt Mrs. Reed & cousin John) play a very impactful and influential role in her upbringing. I believe this is the case because of the fact that as years pass, past events that have taken place in her life have influenced many of her decisions. Jane has grown into a determined and committed young lady because of her experiences and obstacles that she has faced and fortunately overcome.
The novel Jane Eyre is written from the perspective of Jane herself, even though it is “not to be a regular autobiography,” chapter 10, page 84. I believe that the narration certainly develops more emotion and compassion to the protagonist. Reading the novel and visualizing the situations she had to face, from her point of view, truly impacts the overall judgment of the character.
In regards to Jane’s character, I deem that her personality can be determined by comprehending the first beginning paragraphs in the novel. “The cold winter wind had brought with it clouds so somber, and a rain so penetrating, that further out-door exercise was now out of the question,” Chapter 1, page 6. Just by reading this statement and visualizing her surroundings that she describes, I was able to understand Jane better. Jane is an oppressed soul, just waiting to be released.
4. Discuss the connection between setting and Jane’s internal thoughts and feelings.
In relation to the above, I have chosen to portray the connection between Jane’s internal thoughts & feelings and the setting by the following excerpt from the novel …
“The cold winter wind had brought with it clouds so somber, and a rain so penetrating, that further out-door exercise was now out of the question” Chapter 1, Page 6.
When I contemplate about the above excerpt I feel as if Jane is trapped and unable to express her true identity. She is forced to live within a shell and is restrained from achieving her full potential. The weather, as described above, is somber and penetrating just as Jane is herself. There is no color or meaning to Jane’s life because she has never been determined to accomplish anything. She feels as if she has nothing to live for.
I find the image (to the left) inspiring, mainly because it proves that when you set your mind to achieve a goal or task anything is possible. The image can be used as a guide of optimism and strength for Jane.
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