The Impact of Feminism in Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

05.16.2023 // By Tome Tailor

Jane Eyre, arguably one of the most famous novels in English literature, was authored by Charlotte Bronte in 1847. It is the story of the titular character, a young orphaned girl, who despite the odds stacked against her, breaks through societal constraints and achieves self-actualization. Jane Eyre is widely recognized as a proto-feminist novel, highlighting women’s rights and the importance of female independence. This article will delve into the aspects of feminism in Jane Eyre, examining themes of gender and societal expectations, feminism as an ideology, and important feminist influences on Bronte in her creation of the work.

Gender and Societal Expectations in Victorian England

During the Victorian Era, women were primarily viewed as submissive, domestic creatures meant to marry and devote their lives to the service of their husbands and children. Women were confined to the home, spending much of their time in the domestic sphere, where they were expected to be submissive and devoted wives and mothers.

Bronte challenges these societal expectations in Jane Eyre. Jane, the protagonist, is an orphan with no wealth or connections, making her way in the world first as a student, then a teacher at Lowood School, and eventually as a governess at Thornfield Hall. Through education, Jane empowers herself and navigates a world that does not favor women on their own.

Jane’s experiences throughout the novel give voice to the trials and tribulations of women during the Victorian era. A notable example is Jane’s mistreatment by her aunt, Mrs. Reed, who demonstrates the cruelty and callousness that can result from adhering to prescribed societal expectations.

Feminism as an Ideology in Jane Eyre

Feminism in Jane Eyre is evident in the novel’s strong female characters and its emphasis on the importance of female independence. Bronte pushes for the idea that women are not inferior to men and should be allowed to make their own choices, regardless of societal norms.

The novel’s portrayal of Jane is infused with feminist ideology. Jane is persistent, resourceful, and intelligent, defying the expectations that society has for women. When faced with the choice between the love of her life, Mr. Rochester, and her independence, Jane ultimately prioritizes her sense of self and her desire for autonomy. This choice to prioritize self-reliance over the traditional roles of wife and mother showcases Bronte’s feminist leanings.

Feminist Influences on Bronte

The life and works of Mary Wollstonecraft, an early feminist writer, played a significant role in shaping Charlotte Bronte’s feminist perspectives. Wollstonecraft is best known for penning A Vindication of the Rights of Woman in 1792, in which she argues for women’s equality to men and the importance of education for women.

Wollstonecraft’s feminist ideas resonated with Bronte, and her influence is evident in Jane Eyre. Jane’s pursuit of education and independence mirrors Wollstonecraft’s own beliefs about the role of women in society. Moreover, Bronte’s portrayal of Jane as an independent and strong-minded woman echoes Wollstonecraft’s arguments for women’s rights.

Conclusion

In Jane Eyre, Charlotte Bronte crafts a compelling narrative that critiques societal expectations of women and emphasizes the importance of female independence. The feminist themes present in the novel continue to resonate with modern readers, making Jane Eyre not only a timeless classic but also a significant milestone in the history of women’s literature.

Immerse yourself in this incredible story by reading or listening to Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.

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