Jane Eyre Chapters 31-38 Summaries

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Questions and Answers

What happens in chapter 31?

Jane takes up her position as schoolmistress.

What does Jane reflect on during her first evening in her cottage in chapter 31?

She reflects on her actions in leaving Rochester and feels that she was right to leave him but is sad.

Who visits Jane in chapter 31 and what does he hope to do?

St John visits her and explains he hopes to become a missionary.

What is Jane's situation in chapter 32?

Jane settles in at the school and becomes well liked locally, but still has disturbing dreams. Signup and view all the answers

What does Miss Oliver do in chapter 32 while St John is teaching?

Miss Oliver often visits the school and goes to the cottage when Jane is at home. Signup and view all the answers

What significant event occurs in chapter 33 involving St John and Jane?

St John brings Jane news about her inheritance and reveals her connection to her uncle. Signup and view all the answers

What discovery does Jane make about her familial background in chapter 33?

Jane discovers that she is an heiress and has a family. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane decide to do with her fortune in chapter 33?

Jane decides to share the fortune with her newly identified cousins. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when Jane goes back to Moor House for Christmas in chapter 34?

Jane shuts the school and Diana and Mary return; St John expresses his determination to leave England. Signup and view all the answers

What relationship does Jane have with Diana and Mary in chapter 34?

Jane is treated like a sister by Diana and Mary. Signup and view all the answers

What proposal does St John make to Jane in chapter 34?

St John proposes to Jane to be a missionary's wife. Signup and view all the answers

What emotional turmoil does Jane experience in chapter 35?

St John continues to treat Jane coolly, which causes her distress. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane do in response to her feelings in chapter 35?

She begs God for help and suddenly hears Rochester's voice calling out to her. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane find when she arrives at Thornfield in chapter 36?

She sees nothing but a burnt-out shell. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane learn about Rochester at The Rochester Arms in chapter 36?

She discovers that Rochester is alive but injured and Bertha is dead. Signup and view all the answers

What happens during Jane's reunion with Rochester in chapter 37?

Their reunion is emotional and joyful; Rochester has lost his sight and damaged his arm. Signup and view all the answers

What significant event occurs at the end of chapter 37?

Rochester proposes for the second time and Jane accepts. Signup and view all the answers

What happens in chapter 38 regarding Jane and Rochester?

Jane and Rochester marry quietly. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane do after her marriage to Rochester in chapter 38?

Jane writes to Mary, Diana, and St John; later both Diana and Mary marry. Signup and view all the answers

What is the state of Jane and Rochester's life after their marriage in chapter 38?

Jane and Rochester are very happy together; his sight partially recovers and they have a son. Signup and view all the answers

What is St John Rivers' fate at the close of the novel?

St John Rivers never marries; at the close of the novel he is waiting to die in India. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 31

Jane begins her new role as schoolmistress and reflects on leaving Rochester, acknowledging her sadness despite believing it was the right choice.
St John Rivers visits and shares his aspirations to become a missionary, introducing Miss Oliver, who has an apparent attraction to him, although he remains expressionless.

Chapter 32

Jane becomes well-liked in her new role but is plagued by unsettling dreams.
Miss Oliver frequently visits, and Jane meets her father, Mr. Oliver, who reveals more about the Rivers family.
During a visit, Jane observes St John discreetly taking a strip of paper from her sketch, prompting her to inquire about his feelings for Miss Oliver.

Chapter 33

St John delivers shocking news regarding Jane's inheritance, revealing a deceased uncle bequeathed her £20,000.
This uncle previously denied the Rivers family any inheritance, emphasizing Jane's newfound status as an heiress.
Jane resolves to share her fortune with her cousins, the Rivers siblings.

Chapter 34

Jane temporarily closes the school for Christmas and reunites with Diana and Mary; St John expresses his intent to leave England, planning for Miss Oliver to marry another man.
Jane is welcomed warmly by her cousins, yet St John remains distant, briefly kissing her on the cheek one evening.
Desiring news of Rochester, Jane sends letters to Mrs. Fairfax that go unanswered.
St John proposes, seeking a wife for his missionary work; Jane declines but offers to accompany him as a sister, which he dismisses.

Chapter 35

St John's chillier demeanor continues as he rejects Jane's efforts to reconnect. They argue, leading Jane to confide in Diana about their conflicts.
Following evening prayers, St John proposes once more, nearly swaying Jane.
In a moment of fervor, Jane prays for guidance, hearing Rochester's voice calling for her.

Chapter 36

Jane travels to Thornfield the next day, discovering it reduced to a charred ruin due to a fire.
At The Rochester Arms, Jane learns of Bertha's death and Rochester's injuries while trying to save her.
Jane arranges transportation to Ferndean, where Rochester is now living.

Chapter 37

Arriving at Ferndean, Jane finds Rochester, who has lost his sight and injured arm.
Their reunion is filled with emotion and joy, sharing supper and conversation about her experiences since their separation.
Rochester's spiritual growth is revealed; he has learned to entrust his fate to God, believing it has led to their reunion.
Eventually, he proposes again, and Jane joyfully accepts.

Chapter 38

Their marriage is understated, marked by the declaration "Reader, I married him."
Jane keeps in touch with Mary, Diana, and St John, as both her cousins marry eventually.
She supports Adele, transferring her to a new school where she matures into a lovely young woman.
Jane and Rochester enjoy a happy life together, with his sight partially restored and the couple welcoming a son.
St John Rivers remains unmarried, reflecting on his solitary life while waiting for death in India.

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Description

This quiz covers the key events and themes from chapters 31 to 38 of 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë. It provides flashcards to help you recall significant moments and character developments in these later chapters, focusing on Jane’s growth and her relationships. Perfect for students seeking to deepen their understanding of this classic novel.