Book Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Share
About The Book
A novel of intense emotional power, heightened atmosphere and fierce intelligence, Jane Eyre dazzled and shocked readers when first published with its passionate depiction of a woman's search for equality and freedom on her own terms.
It's heroine Jane endures loneliness and cruelty in the home of her heartless aunt and the cold charity of Lowood School. Her natural independence and spirit prove necessary when she takes a position as governess at Thornfield Hall.
But when she finds love with her sardonic employer, Rochester, the discovery of a shameful secret forces her to make a terrible choice.
Why We Love It
Charlotte Bronte's first novel, published in 1847 under the pseudonym Currar Bell, tells the story of a young orphan, the eponymous Jane, from her school-days to adulthood.
Abused and neglected as a child, the novel follows the development of Jane's character, from an impoverished young orphan with an uncertain future and few options to a confident, decisive young woman in full control of her own destiny.
It might be easy to dismiss this as just another Gothic romance, thanks to the darkly brooding character of Mr Rochester as Jane's primary suitor, probably one of my least favourite literary love interests if I'm honest.
Really though it's Jane's growth throughout the novel, her individuality and her desire for self-fulfilment in society where her prospects are severely limited by her lack of status, wealth and connections, which makes this book so beloved by generations of readers around the world.
