“Why was I always suffering, always brow-beaten, always accused, forever condemned? Why was it useless to try to win any one’s favor?”
What can I say about Jane Eyre that hasn’t already been said? This book has it all – romance, suspense, a large cast of interesting characters, a complex, interesting heroine. There’s an underlying theme of feminism and independence. Even almost 175 years later, this book is relatable. Jane’s emotions and inner thoughts stand the test of time.
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being, with an independent will.”
Poor Jane can’t seem to catch a break for awhile – from her horrible childhood at Gateshead to the sadness at Lowood, Jane struggles to find her place. She settles in as governess at Thornfield, and falls in love – but then a horrific secret tears everything apart.
“Do you think because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! I have as much soul as you, and full as much heart!”
She experiences her lowest point after fleeing Thornfield, but only to be embraced by a family and community.
“…and yet, while I breathe and think, I must love him.”
As I got closer to the end, I was hoping Jane would ultimately get the happy ending she deserved. (Reader, she did.)
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