Jane Eyre: Characters

Key Characters in Jane Eyre

1. Jane Eyre
2. Edward Rochester
3. St. John Rivers
4. Helen Burns
5. Bertha Mason
6. Mrs. Reed
7. Mr. Brocklehurst
8. Adele Varens

Jane Eyre

Quote: "I am no bird; and no net ensnares me."

Analysis: Jane asserts her independence, rejecting society's attempts to control her. Brontë uses this to challenge Victorian expectations of women. The word "ensnares" suggests the traps society sets for women, which Jane is determined to avoid. This moment highlights Jane's fierce desire to live freely and equally.

Quote: "Do you think I am an automaton?"

Analysis: Jane demands to be seen as a person with feelings, not just an object. Brontë uses this to show Jane's insistence on being treated with respect and as an equal, especially in her relationships. The word "automaton" reflects her rejection of being emotionless or submissive, which ties into the novel's themes of love and respect.

Edward Rochester

Quote: "You are my sympathy—my better self."

Analysis: Rochester sees Jane as his moral guide, admiring her strength and goodness. Brontë uses this to explore how love can inspire people to become better. This quote shows that despite his flaws, Rochester recognises Jane's moral superiority and relies on her to improve himself.

Quote: "I am not a villain: feel that, and pass on."

Analysis: Rochester asks Jane to see him as more than his mistakes. This quote shows his struggle with guilt and the desire for understanding. Brontë uses this to explore themes of forgiveness, showing that even flawed people seek redemption and understanding.

St. John Rivers

Quote: "I am cold: no fervour infects me."

Analysis: St. John admits he lacks passion, driven only by duty. Brontë uses this to contrast him with Rochester to show different types of men and their motivations. His coldness reflects his inability to connect emotionally, highlighting the novel's theme of the importance of love and passion in a fulfilling life.

Quote: "Reason, and not feeling, is my guide."

Analysis: St. John's reliance on logic over emotion makes him seem distant. Brontë uses this to show the limitations of a life driven solely by duty, without love. This quote explains why St. John struggles with relationships and why Jane ultimately rejects him.

Helen Burns

Quote: "It is not violence that best overcomes hate."

Analysis: Helen believes in responding to hate with kindness. Brontë uses Helen to show a peaceful, forgiving approach to life's hardships. This quote influences Jane, teaching her to face difficulties with patience and grace, reflecting the Christian values of the time.

Quote: "I live in calm, looking to the end."

Analysis: Helen's calmness comes from her strong faith in the afterlife. Brontë uses Helen to show the power of belief in maintaining peace during tough times. Her serenity in the face of death guides Jane's spiritual growth and resilience.

Bertha Mason

Quote: "The lunatic is both cunning and malignant."

Analysis: Bertha is portrayed as mad and dangerous, representing Victorian fears of uncontrolled passions. Brontë uses Bertha to explore themes of madness and repression. Her character also reflects the consequences of suppressing desires and the fear of the unknown.

Quote: "She sucked the blood: she said she'd drain my heart."

Analysis: Bertha is depicted almost like a supernatural creature, embodying society's view of women who defy norms. Brontë uses this imagery to show the monstrous label placed on women who don't conform, warning of the dangers of ignoring darker human emotions.

Mrs. Reed

Quote: "You are a dependent, mama says; you have no money."

Analysis: Mrs. Reed's cruelty reflects the harsh class distinctions in Victorian society. Brontë uses Mrs. Reed to show the unfair treatment of the poor. This quote sets up Jane's determination to prove herself and gain independence, highlighting her difficult start in life.

Quote: "I am glad you are no relation of mine."

Analysis: Jane rejects Mrs. Reed's cruelty, asserting her self-worth. Brontë uses this to show Jane's growing strength and independence. This moment is key in Jane's journey towards finding her identity and refusing to let others define her.

Mr. Brocklehurst

Quote: "You must shun her example: avoid her company."

Analysis: Mr Brocklehurst is a hypocritical figure who uses religion to mistreat the girls at Lowood. Brontë criticises the strict and often cruel religious practices of the time through his character. This quote reflects the social injustices Jane faces, showing Brocklehurst's unfair targeting of her.

Quote: "Humility is a Christian grace, and one peculiarly appropriate to the pupils of Lowood."

Analysis: Mr. Brocklehurst uses the idea of humility to control the girls, while he lives in luxury. Brontë uses this to highlight his hypocrisy and the misuse of religious authority. His character represents the oppressive social control exercised through religion.

Adele Varens

Quote: "She is the image of her mother, whom I now hate."

Analysis: Adele reminds Rochester of his past mistakes. Brontë uses Adele to show the impact of Rochester's past and his sense of responsibility. Despite her background, Adele brings warmth and joy to Jane's life, showing that love and care matter more than social status.

Quote: "She has no talents: she cannot sing."

Analysis: Adele is judged for not meeting societal expectations. Brontë critiques the limited opportunities for women through Adele's character. Despite this, Jane sees her potential, highlighting the importance of kindness and support over social judgement.