"If people were always kind and obedient to those who are
cruel and unjust, the wicked people would have it all their own way: they would
never feel afraid, and so they would never alter, but would grow worse and
worse." Discuss Jane's take on morals and behavior.
Do you agree with this sentiment, and what she says in her discussions with Helen?
Jane seeks out justice and cannot stand when people are mistreated without reason. Jane believes that people should stand up for themselves in order to avoid future mistreatment. However, Helen feels differently. Helen endures cruel treatment from Miss Scatcherd in silence. Helen believes that she should love her enemies and tries to practice Christian acceptance. The dynamic of the relationship between the two girls is interesting, because they have such opposing viewpoints, yet they are the best of friends. Personally, I agree with Jane. While I can understand where Helen is coming from, I don't believe that silence in the face of oppression is ever the right answer. There are so many things in our world that would never have been accomplished if good men and good women had stayed silent. Jane tells Helen that if she continues to let people get away with treating her badly, not only will it continue, but it will grow worse. Jane is right. When someone knows that they can get away with something, they tend to take advantage of that. It is only when people suffer from the consequences of their actions that they begin to change their ways.
ReplyDeleteWesley Story
Jane is a an advocate of fairness and equal treatment. She often times relates her soul to that of a rebellious slave. This mindset originates in her conflict with John in the beginning of the book as well as her relationship with Mrs. Reed. This mindset is one that I can agree with. I enjoy the quote," Evil only prevails when good men do nothing." This quote matches Jane's mindset in this discussion.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jane's take and moral beliefs to a certain extent. I feel like she greatly values that in life you should give just as much as you take and vice versa. However, I feel like she is very set and stone when it comes to this and that where I feel like both mine and her views on things differ. I am willing to adjust to the situation and I don't think that Jane is willing to so the same.
ReplyDeleteI understand Jane's moral beliefs and her viewpoints on how people will eventually get what's coming to them. Because she thinks this way she is usually a good person believing if she does good eventually good will come to her. Jane is willing to do the right thing and stand up for what she believes in. That's why she quoted something similar to her aunt before she left to give her a warning if she keeps treating people like this karma will come back to her.
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