Jane Eyre Chapters 22-23 Summary

Questions and Answers

What happens to Jane at Gateshead after Georgiana leaves?

Jane receives a letter from Mrs. Fairfax about Rochester's guests departing and his trip to London.

What does Jane express after Rochester asks her about his new carriage?

Jane expresses happiness in Rochester's presence.

What does Rochester confide to Jane in the garden?

Rochester tells Jane he has decided to marry Blanche Ingram.

In what location does Rochester propose to Jane?

In a secluded garden/orchard. Signup and view all the answers

How does Jane describe the garden?

Jane compares it to being 'Eden-like'. Signup and view all the answers

What does the moon symbolize in Jane Eyre?

The moon symbolizes the supernatural. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Jane care about Miss Fairfax witnessing her and Rochester together?

It is considered inappropriate for an unmarried woman and man to be alone together. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane say about evil?

She states, 'If evil existent or prospective there was - seemed to lie with me only'. Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about the nightingale in the story?

It is a reference to Philomel. Signup and view all the answers

To whom does Jane compare Rochester?

She compares him to the Eucharist. Signup and view all the answers

Which character from Paradise Lost does Rochester use language similar to?

Adam. Signup and view all the answers

How does Rochester resemble Satan in the story?

He whispers in Jane's ear like Satan. Signup and view all the answers

What does Rochester say about society's opinions on his relationship with Jane?

He doesn't care what other people think. Signup and view all the answers

What event indicates that Jane and Rochester's relationship may not be meant to be?

The chestnut tree splits in half. Signup and view all the answers

How does Jane view Rochester in terms of her faith?

She sees him as an idol. Signup and view all the answers

What do Georgiana and Eliza represent?

Women in the Victorian Era (nun or socialite). Signup and view all the answers

What sensation does Jane Eyre experience that she has never felt before?

The sensation of returning home. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 22 Summary

Jane stays at Gateshead for a month due to Georgiana's fear of being alone with Eliza.
Georgiana eventually moves to London to live with her uncle; Eliza joins a convent in France and later becomes Mother Superior.
Jane receives a letter from Mrs. Fairfax indicating Rochester has left for London to buy a new carriage, signaling his intention to marry Blanche.
Upon arriving at Millcote, Jane unexpectedly meets Rochester; she expresses her happiness to be back with him and refers to him as her only home.
Jane is greeted warmly by Mrs. Fairfax, Adèle, and the servants at Thornfield.

Chapter 23 Summary

After two joyful weeks, Jane sees Rochester in the garden where he reveals his decision to marry Blanche Ingram.
Rochester suggests a governess position for Jane in Ireland, highlighting the distance between them.
Seated under the chestnut tree, Rochester feels a deep connection with Jane, initiating emotional confessions.
Jane confesses her love, and to her surprise, Rochester proposes, revealing he used Blanche to provoke jealousy.
They rush indoors through a storm, where Rochester kisses Jane, observed by Mrs. Fairfax.
A lightning bolt later strikes the chestnut tree they sat under, symbolizing a foreboding omen.

References to Hercules and Samson

Alludes to the theme of women corrupting men, reflecting societal views on female influence.

Representations of Georgiana and Eliza

Symbolize the limited roles available to women in the Victorian Era: the options being a nun or a socialite.

Jane's Sense of Home

Experiences a profound sense of returning home for the first time, epitomized by her feelings for Rochester.

Proposal Setting

Takes place in a secluded garden, reminiscent of Paradise Lost, enhancing the significance of their union.

Description of the Garden

Jane describes the garden as "Eden-like," serving as a sanctuary from Rochester, though he follows her there.

Symbolism of the Moon

Represents the supernatural; it plays a role in pivotal moments, such as Mr. Mason's attack and Jane’s inability to fully see Rochester.

Jane is concerned about being seen alone with Rochester, highlighting the social norms surrounding unmarried men and women.

Jane's Reflection on Evil

Believes that any existing or potential evil is solely her responsibility, indicating her introspective nature.

Significance of the Nightingale

The nightingale symbolizes transformation and suffering, resonating with the story of Philomel, who endured trauma.

Rochester's Comparison to the Eucharist

Jane likens Rochester to the Eucharist, emphasizing his centrality to her spiritual and emotional life.

Rochester's Language Alluding to Paradise Lost

Uses language similar to Adam, expressing love that suggests profound attachment and interdependence.

Rochester's Comparison to Satan

Rochester's whispers to Jane resemble Satanic temptation; he suggests their connection is unencumbered by societal restrictions.

Rochester's Disregard for Others' Opinions

He expresses indifference toward societal judgments regarding their relationship, believing it is divinely sanctioned.

Omen of the Chestnut Tree

The splitting of the chestnut tree foreshadows potential turmoil in their relationship, symbolizing external challenges.

Rochester's Religious Idolatry

Jane views Rochester with reverence, almost like an idol, indicating her deep emotional and spiritual investment in him.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers a summary of Chapters 22 and 23 of 'Jane Eyre.' It discusses Jane's time at Gateshead, Georgiana's move to London, and Eliza's decision to join a convent. Learn about the characters' developments and key events that shape their lives.