Jane Eyre Chapters 27 & 28 Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

How do Jane and Rochester respond to each other when they meet the day after the truth was revealed about Bertha Mason?

She forgives him but doesn't tell him, and he wants her to get mad.

Why was Rochester first attracted to Jane? Describe how his feelings for her had deepened throughout her stay at Thornfield.

He was initially attracted to her looks but grew to love her through understanding her character.

What does Rochester tell Jane in an attempt to convince her to stay with him?

He suggests they can move to France together and leave the situation with Bertha behind.

Why did Rochester marry Bertha?

He was pressured by his family for financial reasons and their social connections. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Rochester take Bertha to Thornfield?

He wanted to keep their marriage a secret and thought it would be easier to manage her there. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of a life did Rochester live in Europe after bringing Bertha to England?

He dated many women, drank a lot, and was generally unhappy. Signup and view all the answers

What was Rochester's emotional state at the end of his period in Europe?

He was depressed and felt unfulfilled, with Jane being the only source of happiness. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how this passage reveals Jane's character: 'I care for myself...'

It shows her strong sense of self-respect and moral conviction despite her loneliness. Signup and view all the answers

What does the moon symbolize in this chapter?

The moon symbolizes guidance and the call to leave temptation behind. Signup and view all the answers

As Jane walks away from Thornfield, what does she say about the birds? What do they symbolize for her at this time?

She envies the birds for their faithfulness in love, symbolizing her own feelings of loneliness. Signup and view all the answers

How does chapter 27 close?

Jane leaves with nothing, feeling heartbroken, addressed as 'gentle reader.' Signup and view all the answers

How does Jane leave Thornfield? What does she bring with her?

She leaves with a small bag and a loaf of bread, indicating her lost hope. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Jane having little with her when she leaves Thornfield?

It emphasizes her independence and disillusionment with people after being let down. Signup and view all the answers

How is the theme of social class evident in this chapter?

Jane's interaction with others reflects her changing social status and the prejudices she faces. Signup and view all the answers

Describe Jane's arrival at the Rivers' door in Marsh End.

She is initially treated poorly by Hannah, but St. John Rivers allows her to enter. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Jane allowed inside the Rivers' cottage? What happens once she is taken in?

St. John Rivers overhears her conversation and offers her shelter; she stays for three days. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Interaction between Jane and Rochester

Jane remains calm and forgiving when she meets Rochester after learning about Bertha Mason, despite his expectations for a furious reaction.
Rochester's distress increases when Jane does not react as he anticipated, highlighting his emotional dependence on her responses.

Rochester's Evolving Feelings

Initially viewed Jane with indifference, but his perspective changed through observation, leading to a deeper emotional connection.
Their conversations revealed his profound love for Jane, emphasizing the shift from superficial attraction to genuine affection.

Rochester's Offers to Jane

Rochester proposes the idea of moving to France together, indicating his willingness to leave Bertha behind to pursue a life with Jane.

The Circumstances of Bertha’s Marriage

Rochester married Bertha Mason due to familial pressure and financial motives, facilitated by their fathers’ association.
Bertha's mixed heritage (English father, Creole mother) was a factor in Rochester's family’s expectations for a marriage that could preserve their fortune.

Reasons for Bertha's Presence at Thornfield

Bertha was brought to Thornfield under the pretense of maintaining secrecy about their marriage, allowing them to live without societal recognition of their union.

Rochester’s Life in Europe

After bringing Bertha to England, Rochester engaged in a lifestyle of drinking and dating, searching for companionship but ultimately feeling unfulfilled.

Rochester's Emotional Decline

His hedonistic lifestyle led to depression, with Jane's presence being the sole source of hope and emotional uplift for him during this period.

Jane’s Personal Resolve

Jane expresses her reliance on God and not on people, feeling betrayed by her past relationships while asserting her self-respect despite her loneliness.

Symbolism of the Moon

In Jane's dream, the moon symbolizes divine guidance, encouraging her to flee from temptation and reminding her of her moral compass.

Jane's Reflections on Love

As she departs Thornfield, Jane hears singing birds and feels envy, recognizing their faithful love, which she feels she cannot attain.

Conclusion of Chapter 27

The chapter closes with Jane addressing the reader, emphasizing her profound sense of loss and heartbreak as she leaves Thornfield with nothing.

Jane’s Departure from Thornfield

Jane leaves with only a small bag and a loaf of bread, symbolizing her shattered hopes for love and a secure future.

Significance of Jane’s Minimal Belongings

Jane's meager possessions upon leaving Thornfield represent her disillusionment with people and her choice to place her faith solely in God.

Jane's journey through Millcoate showcases her struggle with social class; her attempts to find work are met with disdain, highlighting her fall from her previous status.

Jane’s Arrival at the Rivers' Cottage

Initially greeted coldly by Hannah, Jane eventually gains entry with St. John Rivers’ intervention, reflecting her vulnerability and the prejudices she faces.

Reception at the Rivers' Cottage

The Rivers family, particularly the daughters, offer Jane kindness, providing her shelter and care, which contrasts sharply with her earlier experiences.

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Description

Explore key themes and character dynamics in Chapters 27 and 28 of 'Jane Eyre'. This quiz highlights the complex relationship between Jane and Rochester after the reveal of Bertha Mason's truth. Test your knowledge on their responses and emotional developments during this pivotal moment in the story.