Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does Jane Eyre's independence challenge in society?
What does Jane Eyre's independence challenge in society?
What social class does Jane belong to as an orphan?
What social class does Jane belong to as an orphan?
Lower class
Jane believes it is better to belong to a wealthy, abusive family than a poor, loving one.
Jane believes it is better to belong to a wealthy, abusive family than a poor, loving one.
True
Which character does Jane describe as a cold-hearted, greedy man?
Which character does Jane describe as a cold-hearted, greedy man?
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What role does Jane take on that allows her to earn her own money?
What role does Jane take on that allows her to earn her own money?
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Jane's relationship with Rochester represents a conflict in _____ class.
Jane's relationship with Rochester represents a conflict in _____ class.
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Rochester evaluates Jane based on her social class at first.
Rochester evaluates Jane based on her social class at first.
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What significant scene subverts gender and class roles between Jane and Rochester?
What significant scene subverts gender and class roles between Jane and Rochester?
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How does Blanche Ingram view Jane's social standing?
How does Blanche Ingram view Jane's social standing?
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Bertha's loss of social standing is attributed to _____ illness.
Bertha's loss of social standing is attributed to _____ illness.
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What does St. John prioritize over acknowledging Jane's feelings?
What does St. John prioritize over acknowledging Jane's feelings?
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St. John represents a fully developed character.
St. John represents a fully developed character.
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How does Jane's social class change towards the end of the novel?
How does Jane's social class change towards the end of the novel?
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Study Notes
Social Class in "Jane Eyre"
- Social class plays a crucial role in Victorian society, with women typically subservient to men.
- Jane Eyre challenges societal norms by prioritizing independence and earning her own income.
- Throughout the novel, Jane's experiences across various social classes highlight her belief in judging individuals by character rather than class.
Life at Gateshead Hall
- Jane, as an orphan, belongs to the lower class and feels the weight of her status.
- Reflects that it's better to belong to a wealthy, abusive family than a loving, poor one due to the harsh realities of the working class.
- Questions patriarchal norms and asserts her individuality by challenging John Reed's authority.
- Critics like Terry Eagleton observe the novel's context during a time of significant social transformation.
- Elizabeth Rigby emphasizes Jane's strong-mindedness, critiquing the strict hierarchies of her time.
Experience of Education
- Brocklehurst’s character represents traditional authority, yet Jane perceives him as cold and greedy.
- Poor conditions at Lowood lead to sufferings, showing the dangers of inadequate care.
- Jane’s education ultimately provides her a path to becoming a governess, granting her a degree of independence uncommon for women.
- Feminists note Jane's isolation as indicative of women's broader issues in society.
- Brontë illustrates Jane's inner turmoil and desire for autonomy, embodying a hunger for freedom.
Relationship with Rochester
- The relationship is steeped in social class tensions.
- Jane defies norms by taking on a nurturing role, reversing typical gender dynamics.
- Jane's actions, such as saving Rochester from a fire, highlight her strength and subvert expectations of her class.
- Rochester initially judges Jane by her class but later dismisses societal standards in their union.
- The gypsy scene symbolizes societal marginalization and foreshadows their connection's depth.
- Critics recognize Brontë's portrayal of Jane as a groundbreaking feminist character who redefines traditional roles.
Blanche, Bertha, and Religion
- Blanche Ingram's condescension towards Jane emphasizes class disparities and the influence of wealth.
- Bertha Mason's social standing diminishes due to her mental illness, revealing societal ignorance of such issues.
- The novel critiques both gender injustices and colonial brutality, highlighting Bertha's struggle against societal forces.
- Post-colonial interpretations show Jane's ascendance over Bertha despite her lower class, emphasizing racial dynamics in social respect.
St. John
- St. John Rivers's character contrasts with Rochester, showcasing an emotionally detached demeanor.
- His weaker financial standing compared to Rochester affects his relationship with Jane, prioritizing religious fervor over personal connection.
- Critics criticize St. John's missionary zeal as a guise for imposing his will on others.
- His perspectives on other races reveal inherent prejudices tied to social anxieties.
- Critics argue that he symbolizes an oppressive attitude, lacking true character development.
Conclusion
- By the novel's conclusion, Jane inherits money, which elevates her social status and allows her to achieve independence on her own terms.
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Description
Explore the themes of social class in 'Jane Eyre' through these flashcards. Learn how Jane challenges societal norms of the Victorian era by prioritizing independence and character over class distinctions. This resource delves into the significance of social class in the novel and its impact on personal identity.
