Final Discussion: Art Imitates Life

There are quite a few parallels between Jane’s stories and the Bronte sisters.  Do a bit of research on Charlotte’s life and discuss the connections here.

Final Discussion: A Whole New Word…

Jane Eyre is a Bildungsroman – a coming-of-age novel; a novel of education; a novel of formation.  How does this novel fit that mold?  How has anyone come of age?

Final Discussion: For all Intents & Purposes

It’s famously claimed that Charlotte Bronte wrote Jane’s character in answer to a challenge.  She wanted to prove that a plain, witty, female character could be just as compelling as a beautiful damsel in distress.  She also provided a feminist critique of many aspects of the Victorian lifestyle.  Do you feel like she was successful?  If you’d like to do some research on Victorian life, or Bronte’s purposes – cite some evidence & reflect.

Final Discussion: Lesson Learned

What would be some good theme statements for the novel?  Remember – a theme says something ABOUT a topic!  Support your response with text references (and without Sparknotes/Shmoop)!

Maybe more importantly...What will YOU take away from reading this piece?  

24-30: The Help

At the end of our reading assignment, Jane has a conversation with Hannah.  How does she parallel with the servants in the Reed household?

24-30: Home is Wherever I'm with...people who mistreat me

Discuss the various "homes" that Jane has been in so far, Gateshead, Lowood, Thornfield, and the Rivers' household. How are they the same, and how do they differ?

24-30: All things being equal

Throughout the novel, we continually see Jane struggle for equality. How does Jane struggle in these chapters, and what is the significance?

24-30: Jewelry and Dresses and Carriages, Oh My!

Look closely at the first chapters is this section - the preparation for the wedding.    How does Rochester prepare, and how do Jane and Adele react?  What does this tell us about their characters and what lay ahead?

24-30: Don't Blame Me...

A two-part question:

Rochester claims he was tricked into marrying Bertha.  Do you buy it? Does he deserve sympathy or to be rid of this burden?  Why or why not?

Look at his discussion/confession and specifically comment on Bronte's language use to characterize Rochester and express his tone.

24-30: Should've Seen It Coming...

Discuss what could have foreshadowed this event -- in these chapters and previous ones, too.