Jane Eyre, the main protagonist of the classic novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, is an orphan who possesses a sense of self-worth and dignity regardless of the cruel treatment and alienation she receives from her Aunt, cousins, and servants in the mansion of Gateshead. Commissioned by her husband before he passes away, Aunt Reed adopts Jane after the death of her parents and brings her to live with her children, Eliza, John, and Georgiana. Yet they abuse her for their own pleasure, regarding her as someone less than a servant and a “little toad” (25). Jane feels ostracized and abandoned by her remaining family. Because she has an independent nature, Jane will not allow her self-esteem to be constantly tramped on by everyone in the house. She rarely drops a tear in front of people and she "cries because [she] is miserable" (22). This results in the development of her strong desire for autonomy and freedom. As her relationship with her aunt deteriorates due to Jane’s courage in standing up against her aunt’s disrespect and mistreatment, Aunt Reed decides to send her to the Christian school of Lowood to “civilize” her. I feel extremely sympathetic towards Jane Eyre because of the miserable circumstances she has had to endure in Gateshead, especially when she is only a child. I feel fortunate to have a family who is caring and loving and I am grateful that I never had to encounter Jane’s difficulties. In addition, I admire Jane Eyre’s strong sense of independence and unbreakable dignity in the harsh situations she is force to live in. Most children at Jane’s age would be unable to confront an adult, particularly someone in a position who has tremendous amount of power. They would most likely be intimated, horrified by the abuse they receive and would try to hide away their feelings, which would turn into rage and despair. Some children would be made to believe that their abuse is reasonable and that this is the way they should be treated. Nevertheless, Jane understands what is acceptable and she is not, and "will not ever be afraid" to resist injustice (39). I think Jane is a very exceptional child who has an innate sense of self-regard that gives her the strength to face her aunt and condemns her for her actions and attitudes. She fights valiantly for her rights as a human being deserving respect and compassion all by herself.
Hello Selina!
ReplyDeleteThe protagonists in both of our stories seem to have a lot in common. Both Jane Eyre and Oliver Twist are orphans struggling to survive. You stated that Jane “rarely drops a tear in front of people”. This is exactly how Oliver is like as well. No matter how difficult life may be for the protagonists in our novels, they will never show signs of weakness. Jane stands up against her aunt’s mistreatment, and Oliver runs away to London hoping for a better life. However, one big difference is that Oliver was raised in a workhouse, whereas Jane was raised by her own aunt. I think that Oliver being treated poorly is a given since he was taken care of by people who have no connections to him, but I find it unfortunate that Jane, despite being raised by a family member, was abused. From reading your paragraph, I also admire Jane. I do not think that I could handle the problems she has in her life.
I am sure that both of these characters will make it through the difficult obstacles in life with their perseverance.
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ReplyDeleteHey Selina,
ReplyDeleteYour protagonist, Jane Eyre, is a very strong-hearted character worthy of much respect. When compared with the protagonist of my novel, I am greatly amazed at the difference in which they deal with their challenging situations in life. Jane is only a child, yet she is willing and unafraid to stand up for her own values. On the other hand, Dr. Henry of my novel is much older in age – however, he is frightened to face his dilemmas and retreats into reclusion. When compared to myself, I too, am not sure if I possess Jane’s determination or her passion for freedom.
In order for one to succeed in whichever direction they’re heading for, it requires strong persistence and inexplicable amounts of patience. Furthermore, the belief in one’s self is an unimaginably crucial element in determining their achievement. With Jane, I truly believe that she will ultimately be able to reach her goals and the liberty she seeks.