An Introduction to Charlotte Bronte and Jane Eyre- Settings, Themes, Characters and the Byronic Hero

Summary

This video provides an insightful introduction to Charlotte Brontë's classic novel *Jane Eyre*, covering the author's background, key characters, setting, and major themes. Viewers learn about Charlotte's early life, her struggles, and the inspiration behind the story, including the tragic deaths in her family. The narrative of Jane Eyre is explored through themes of love, social class, independence, and religion, with an emphasis on Jane’s journey of self-discovery. Additionally, the Gothic and Romantic elements within the story are highlighted, showcasing the complexity of the characters and the emotional depth of the novel.

Takeaways

• 😀 Charlotte Brontë, born in 1816, was part of a literary family with a tragic history, including the early deaths of her mother and two sisters due to tuberculosis.
• 😀 Charlotte and her sisters, using male pen names, published novels in the Victorian era, with *Jane Eyre* being Charlotte's most famous work.
• 😀 *Jane Eyre* was published in 1847 and is a Gothic and Romantic novel set in early 19th-century England, with events narrated by Jane from her past.
• 😀 The novel’s protagonist, Jane Eyre, is an orphaned child who grows into a strong, independent woman, challenging societal expectations of women at the time.
• 😀 The primary male character, Edward Rochester, is Jane’s employer at Thornfield, a secretive and complex Byronic hero with a hidden past.
• 😀 Other key characters include Jane’s cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed, and the Rivers family, who take care of Jane after she leaves Thornfield.
• 😀 Themes in the novel include love, social class, religion, and independence, with Jane constantly searching for love and belonging.
• 😀 The novel is notable for portraying a female protagonist who claims the right to act on her emotions and convictions, which was rare for women in literature at the time.
• 😀 *Jane Eyre* explores the theme of social class, with Jane’s lower status making her feel inadequate in her relationship with Rochester.
• 😀 The Gothic elements of the story include an imprisoned woman (Bertha Mason), supernatural interventions, and the eerie setting of Thornfield Hall.
• 😀 The Romantic influence in the novel is seen in its focus on individual rights, emotional depth, and the championing of the individual over societal norms.

Q & A

What is the significance of Charlotte Brontë's background in shaping her writing, particularly in *Jane Eyre*?

Charlotte Brontë's harsh upbringing, including the death of her mother and the subsequent challenges at the clergy daughters’ school, influenced her writing, especially her portrayal of mistreatment and adversity. Her personal experiences with loss, illness, and societal expectations shaped the themes of isolation, struggle, and resilience in *Jane Eyre*.

How did Charlotte Brontë's family influence her literary career?

Charlotte Brontë was deeply influenced by her siblings, especially her sisters Emily and Anne, who were also writers. The Brontë family faced tragedy and isolation, which encouraged them to write. Charlotte's relationship with her siblings was formative, and their collective works helped establish the Brontë legacy in literature.

What role does religion play in *Jane Eyre*?

Religion is a significant theme in *Jane Eyre*, portrayed through various characters such as Helen Burns, Mr. Brocklehurst, and St. John Rivers. Each represents different religious perspectives, with Helen emphasizing faith and forgiveness, Mr. Brocklehurst embodying hypocritical religious practices, and St. John promoting a rigid, duty-bound spirituality. Jane’s own spiritual journey is influenced by these characters.

What are some Gothic elements present in *Jane Eyre*?

Key Gothic elements in *Jane Eyre* include the mysterious and oppressive atmosphere at Thornfield Hall, the hidden presence of Bertha Mason, and supernatural occurrences, such as the eerie laughter and strange noises Jane hears. These elements heighten the suspense and contribute to the novel’s Gothic nature.

How does *Jane Eyre* challenge traditional gender roles in literature?

In *Jane Eyre*, Charlotte Brontë presents a strong, independent female protagonist who defies the traditional passive role of women in literature. Jane Eyre asserts her right to emotional expression, independence, and moral choice, positioning her as a complex, self-determined character. This was groundbreaking for its time, especially for a female lead in a Romantic novel.

Why did Charlotte Brontë and her sisters use male pen names when publishing their works?

Charlotte Brontë and her sisters used male pen names because women writers were not taken seriously in Victorian England. The literary world was dominated by men, and using a male pseudonym allowed them to publish their works without facing the prejudice that women authors often encountered.

What is the significance of Jane Eyre’s relationship with Mr. Rochester in the novel?

The relationship between Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester explores themes of love, power, and social class. While Jane initially feels inferior due to her lower social status, their relationship evolves into a partnership based on mutual respect and emotional connection. Rochester, a Byronic hero, represents the Romantic ideal of passionate, emotional love, though his secrets and moral struggles complicate their bond.

What is the role of social class in *Jane Eyre*?

Social class is a central theme in *Jane Eyre*. Jane struggles with her identity as a poor orphan in a society that values wealth and status. Her feelings of inadequacy compared to wealthier characters, like the Reeds and Blanche Ingram, highlight the rigid class structures of the time. Despite these challenges, Jane seeks love and respect on her terms, regardless of her economic background.

How does Charlotte Brontë use the character of Bertha Mason in the novel?

Bertha Mason serves as a symbol of the 'Other' and represents the hidden, dark aspects of Victorian society. She is locked away in the attic of Thornfield Hall, mirroring Jane’s own confinement and struggle for freedom. Bertha’s existence also underscores the theme of secrets and the consequences of repressed emotions.

What role does the setting of Lowood School play in Jane’s development?

Lowood School plays a critical role in Jane’s early development, exposing her to both harsh discipline and deep friendships. The school's poor conditions, such as disease outbreaks and mistreatment, shape Jane’s sense of resilience and independence. Her friendship with Helen Burns and admiration for Miss Temple influence her moral and spiritual growth.