Jane Eyre - a Feminist Novel

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Jane Eyre: A Feminist Novel Jane Eyre is a novel written in 1847 by Charlotte Bronte. During these times, women were supposed to be “seen and not heard”. They were expected to be subservient to men and quietly obedient. Typically, they were housewives, teachers, or nurses. However, Jane Eyre was not a stereotypical Victorian woman. Throughout the novel, she speaks out, is independent, and is very educated. All of these characteristics were not common for women in the 1840’s. Charlotte Bronte is trying to convey a message about women’s rights in this book. Feminism is defined as “the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men”. Jane Eyre is a feminist novel because Bronte speaks through her character in order to show how women feel when they are suppressed by social norms, and how they truly deserve to be treated. By using Jane’s ability to speak out, her independence, and her intelligence, Bronte makes it clear that the novel is written from a feminist point of view. When Jane is a child, she speaks out against inequality and unfair treatment. Jane is constantly disrespected because of her plain looks and lack of money. However, Jane does not allow these insults to continue for long. While living with her step-aunt Mrs. Reed, Jane is tormented by the entire household. When she discovers that she is being sent to a boarding school she is very unhappy. Finally, she explodes in a fit of anger saying, “I am glad you are no relation of mine. I will never call you my aunt again as long as I live. I will never come to visit you when I am grown up; and if anyone asks me how I liked you, and how you treated me, I will say the very thought of you makes me sick, and that you treated me with miserable cruelty...” (15). At such a young age, Jane defends herself with strength and courage. This shows the
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