Jane Eyre: A Testament to Adversity The bildungsroman Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë underlines the necessity of adversity in one’s life. Jane’s unwarranted circumstance and discriminatory society, however unjust, proved vital for her growth. For in the end, the trials and hardships she underwent allowed her to become a person, who was neither completely controlled by her beliefs or her religion. (Benvenuto) As a child, Jane was a hardened and rebellious child, shaped by the mistreatment of her aunt Reed and cousins. Her character was reshaped by her experiences in Lockwood and her friendship with Helen Burns. Jane’s education in Lockwood strived to bring her up as a “child of grace” (Brontë 54), wherein she conforms to the norms, in contrast to being a “child of nature” (Brontë 54), one that is individual and unique. Throughout her life, Jane struggles between these contrasting categories. (Benvenuto) Jane’s admiration and friendship with Helen Burns allowed her to compare her ways with someone she looked up to. While Jane admits that she is “no Helen Burns” (Brontë 55), her love for Helen immediately affects her behaviour. Between Helen and the likeliness of her aunt and cousins, Jane understands that she must “define her character and actions in relation to Helen’s ideal.” (Reger) In the scene …show more content…
Contrary to Jung’s article, Jane is no detective. Only when Mr. Biggs reads out a notary of Berta’s existence that Jane accepts that something is amiss, and as Rochester’s bride, she should be concerned. Furthermore, it takes her a day to leave Thornfield, as she was tempted to stay and be Rochester’s mistress. But Jane lets her belief guide her as she refuses, proclaiming they both find relief in the mercy of God- “Do as I do: trust in God and yourself. Believe in heaven, hope to meet again there.” (Brontë