Victorian Fiction

The protagonist of Jane Eyre pushes the boundaries of social conventions and dares to achieve happiness on her own terms. Living in a world where women are compelled to depend on their husbands for their security, Jane refuses to go against her conscience and triumphs in developing a marriage in which she is equal to her husband. The trials and tribulations of Jane reflect the injustices that British society inflicts on disadvantaged groups, such as the lower class and women.

As you explored and studied Charlotte Brontë's novel, you were able to see how Jane Eyre is a coming-of-age story that follows Jane's transition from childhood to adulthood. You also examined examples that demonstrated how Jane Eyre crosses other genres of literature, such as autobiography, gothic fiction, and feminist literature. Finally, you experienced and compared the story of Jane Eyre both in it original text and through another medium, such as film.