One of the techniques Bronte uses throughout her novel is the binary. Which, of the many that she proffers, do you feel governs the narrative? Please explain why as well.
If it is meant by binary that Bronte implements an array of secondary figures, than Rochester would be the most dominant. His role, unlike any others' in the novel, is to be something for Jane to strive towards. With all the other characters, be it Mrs. Temple, or Helen Burns, Jane may have affection for them, but never makes it her ultimate goal to remain with them. With Rochester, Jane sees a prosperous, moreover, happy life; one that does not consist of the live and leave approach that has ruled her life throughout the piece.
If by binary you mean the use of opposites in Jane Eyre, I think that one of the most important uses of contrasts in the book revolves around the difference between the role of women versus the role of men. This seems to govern the novel starting at the beginning with John Reed's treatment of Jane, which leads to Mr. Brocklehurst's treatment of Jane, which leads to Rochester's treatment of Jane, as well as St. John's treatment of Jane. They all seem to hold control over what she does.
As Jane says, "Women are supposed to be very calm generally: but women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties, and a field for their efforts as much as their brothers do; they suffer from too rigid a restraint, too absolute a stagnation, precisely as men would suffer; and it is narrow-minded in their more privileged fellow-creatures to say that they ought to confine themselves to making puddings and knitting stockings, to playing on the piano and embroidering bags. It is thoughtless to condemn them, or laugh at them, if they seek to do more or learn more than custom has pronounced necessary for their sex."
Sorry to use such a long quote, but I feel that when Jane says this, she best explains her unhappiness with the system of gender roles. And with, for example, Rochester, he controls what goes on at Thornfield, and he controls what the people who work for him do as well. So the fact that he wields so much power contrasts with Jane's lack of power. Her attempt to be equal to the men around her is mostly unsuccessful. She tries to speak up for herself, which helps her at times, yet in reality, she does not have much control to change the way things work in her life, the way men around her seem to always be superior. This is the case until she returns to Rochester a changed person and claims "I am an independent woman now," for she has inherited a great sum of money and can now be her "own mistress." She finally finds her place and acquires a higher position as a woman in society, so she can make her own decisions in her life without being completely dependent on a man.
If I am interpreting this prompt correctly, it states that Charlotte Bronte uses a variety of opposites to emphasize the strengths and weaknesses of elements of Jane Eyre like characters and places. I feel one binary component that spans nearly the whole novel is the fact that Mr. Rochester and St. John have opposite personalities, allowing Jane to realize how strong her feelings are for Mr. Rochester. While Mr. Rochester proposes to Jane in a fit of euphoria and spontaneity, St. John proposes marriage because it is a sensible choice for both him and Jane, so they can go on missions together. While Mr. Rochester is playful with Jane, arguing with her, teasing her, and complimenting her [and of course calling her an elf/imp :),] St. John is distant and cold, only complimenting her on her fast learning ability and philanthropic potential so she will travel with him as a missionary. This contrast is consistent from when Jane leaves Thornfield to the end of the novel; Bronte uses it to show why Jane returns to Mr. Rochester.
I agree completely with michelle. okay so I am going to stretch this a little. I am going to use the binary of man and woman. Men tend to be thought of as more important than women, men are at the center of discussions while women are on the sides. I think Jane Eyre could be considered a feminist novel. The main reason I think this is a feminist novel is that Jane does not marry Rochester until she is financially independent of him. However, people can argue that it is not a feminist novel in regard to Bertha Mason being locked up in an attic.
I want to reiterate the idea of binary meaning two components. In the case of Jane Eyre, many characters exist to serve as antithesis of each other. This idea is important because it showcases the different characters, ideologies and practices that Jane encounters during the novel.
I agree that one of the ideas that Charlotte Bronte addresses in the novel is the contrasting views of men and women. By creating Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester and her stay with St. John, the author shows how men would operate in relationships. For example, like St. John, men tend to have different expectations of how a woman should operate and conduct herself (i.e. St. John wanting Jane to become a missionary's wife).
However, not including Mr. Rochester and St. John, other characters exist in the novel that serve as opposites. For example. Mr. Brocklehurst and Helen Burns contrast each other. Brocklehurst has a strict view of God, viewing him as all powerful and unforgiving. Upon her soon demise, Helen has more of a pacifying view, claiming that God will accept her graciously despite her shortcomings.
Another example of antithesis is seen with both sides of Jane's family, the Reeds and the Rivers. The Reed family is not the most nurturing; they treat Jane poorly and even turn on themselves. The Rivers are more inspiring; both sisters, Mary and Diana, serve as role models for Jane. It's interesting for the author to have two seemingly different families and place them under the same genealogy.
The characters in Jane Eyre serve as contrasts in the novel. They're all interesting to examine and explore because they highlight the different adventures and attitudes that Jane comes across in the novel. In the end of the novel, Jane can be described as loving, independent, educated and caring person. All of Jane's morals, values and standards are shaped by the supporting characters in the novel.
I think that Bronte uses the technique of binary in the sense that though there is one main story, that of Jane's life, there are a variety of subplots, each providing a new view of the situation. The majority characters seem to have opposites, and their lives run parallel to each other. Jane and Helen Burns are an example of this. They both attend Lowood, but approach life their in a very different manner, thus they encounter extremely different outcomes. Jane asserts herself, while Helen shrinks away from the world. Thus Jane ends up coping with Lowood, and Helen dies. Rochester and St. John are another example of two very different characters. There is also a large contrast between the 'family life' Jane has at Gateshead with the Reeds, and the love and acceptance she finds with the Rivers. Throughout the story run these threads connecting the characters by exposing their differences. I would venture to say that the most obvious and prominent comparison of characters is that of Rochester and St. John becuase it provides the greatest visible plot spur. If it were not for St. John's company and proposal Jane may never have returned to Thornfield to see what became of Rochester. They are so distinctly different that their presence when contrasted with one another plays a major role in governing the novel.
Ultimately, Jane Eyre is a novel about a woman finding her place in the world. Thus, the most important binary of the novel deals with two different types of lives. An everpresent binary exists between a life of passion, and a life of piety. This theme is first introduced through the characterof Helen Burns. Devout and disciplined, Helen accepts the oppression of her elders with humble forebearance. Jane cannot understand this passivity; she would prefer to lash out in just retaliation. A choice between a life of passion and piety most literally presents itself to Jane when she facesmarriage proposals from both St. John and Mr. Rochester. The dark, morally questionnable Mr. Rochester represents a marriage of love and earthly pleasure. St. John represents a marriage with a higher purpose; with him, Jane will be but an instrument of divine will. Ultimately, Jane's life will occupy a comfortable middle ground within this rigid binary. She will live with the man she loves, but take on an almost pious, religious role in aiding his revival, and facilitating his deliverance from the sins of his youth.
I think that Charlotte Bronte uses binary to create character foils. The first example that popped into my head was Jane’s relationship with Blanche Ingram, the hot-shot gold-digger attached to Mr. Rochester by the hip. Jane actually draws Miss Ingram’s portrait using Mrs. Fairfax’s description, draws a portrait of her own simple, unattractive self, and refers to the two when she’s foolish enough to imagine Mr. Rochester harboring romantic feelings for her. Miss Ingram is everything Jane is not. She is “the noble bust, the sloping shoulders, the graceful neck,” and Jane is plain (175). Her social status and heritage make her a worthy bride to Mr. Rochester, whereas Jane’s childhood as a charity case makes her feel incompetent. However, although Jane’s childhood causes her to strive for love and acceptance- a hunger that Miss Ingram mocks with her haughty laugh and possessiveness- she has an identity. Her self-awareness conflicts with Mr. Rochester’s societal dominance as a man. Binary is used again as Mr. Rochester tries to don 'Janet' (ew) with pearls and luxurious gowns. She catches a glimpse of the woman she never wants to become. Although there are other strong character foils (i.e. Mr. Rochester and St. John or Mr. Brocklehurst and Helen Burns, as others have mentioned) I thought that the contrast between Jane and Miss Ingram, and the contrast between Jane and ‘Janet’ revealed the most of this novel’s protagonist and her narrative.
Of the many examples of binary used in the novel, Bronte's use of secondary characters is the most important. Specifically, the character of Helen Burns governs the thoughts and actions of Jane Eyre throughout the novel. After her death, Jane begins to adhere to the rules of Lowood and later influences her in the case of her love affair with Mr. Rochester. Helen Burns is likened to Christ in that she allows herself to be punished: she is a martyr. Thus, she is then the opposite of Jane. Jane is influenced by her, and this is proven by the fact that she gives up Mr. Rochester to retain her principals. She leaves him because she wishes to be more like Helen in her actions, even though she falters and goes back to him in the end.
Bronte's novel, as the title suggests, tells the story of Jane Eyre's life and her development as a person. The author utilizes binary as a tool for developing Jane's character. Whenever Jane meets a new character, and she meets a vast number of individual's throughout the novel, the author creates comparisons. One major comparison exists between her life with the Reeds, one of abuse and often fear, and with the Rivers, one of family and love. Another important exmaple of binary involves Helen Burns. The novel compares the two girls and the way that Jane lashes out when she feels attacked versus Helen who accepts abuse without complaint, cementing her image as a Christ figure. In addition, an important comparison exists between Rochester and St. John, as both man propose marriage to Jane. She must in turn choose between love and a sense of a higher calling. Her choice to seek Rochester and pursue their love shows how Jane changed from the beginning of the novel. Jane after finding familial love with the Rivers can pusue romantic love with Rochester. The many highly symbolic occurences throughout the novel support the idea that all of these comparisons exist purposefully, and that they exist in order to further the development of Jane's character.
I took binary to mean the importance of secondary characters, and if that is the case I think the most important secondary character is St.John. While Jane struggles to keep her passions from governing her actions, St. John lives solely by principles. Jane soon sees he lives a very dry life. She describes him as someone who is cross when someone else is smiling instead of studying or doing something "useful". I feel like seeing him live without any pleasure influences her to go back to Rochester. She has no way of knowing his crazy wife "happened" to kill herself, so as far as Jane is concerned Rochester is still off limits. However, seeing St. John take no risks at all influences her to risk the whole new life she has created just to see him. Jane left Rochester to pursue a life without passion, but St. John shows her that a life without passion isn't very appealing.
Being that "Jane Eyre" is dominated by the different interactions of characters,the binary technique definitely governs the majority of the book. Bronte uses the technique to form the absolute opposition of the main characters in the novel. There are three main pairs of characters that are foils of one another: Jane and Helen Burns, St. John and Mr. Rochester, and Helen Burns and Mr. Brocklehurst.
Helen Burns is a foil of Jane Eyre, because her personality is much more understated than Jane's. Helen is very submissive, whereas Jane is short tempered and always asserts herself. Jane always tries to stand up for herself whereas Helen ignores punishments in life and looks forward to happiness in the after life guaranteed by Christianity. She is also a foil to Mr. Brocklehurst. Though they are both devout Christians, they practice their religion in two very different ways. Mr. Brockelhurst represents a much more rigid form of Christianity that uses discourages happiness found in earthly things. Helen Burns however, does not use her religion for power but sees it as a means of tolerance. Also, she rejects the harsh conditions Brocklehurst imposes and uses her faith to find satisfaction.
Mr. Rochester and St. John are foils because of their differing personalities, values in life, and social statues. St. John is a very introverted, self involved man who is generally quiet. Mr. Rochester, on the other hand, always speaks his mind and is very outspoken, almost to the point of being gruff. Mr. Rochester values things that could be depicted as sinful. (ie his love of women, his preoccupation with social status, etc.) St. Jphn Rivers is a very pious man who is not concerned with materialistic things. He prefers to spend his life as a missionary while Rochester prefers to pursue matters of fortune. Lastly, Mr. Rochester and St. John come from completely separate social classes. Rivers comes from a very humble background and does not have much to his name, whereas Rochester is one of the nobles. constantly moving between estates and holding or attending parties that may last for weeks at a time.
When using the interpretation that “binary” refers to opposites, I think that an important comparison helps make Rochester’s opinion change, which in the end benefits Jane and helps resolve a major conflict. This is the use of the characters Bertha Mason and Blanche Ingram. On one side there is Bertha, Rochester’s crazy wife who is originally described as “some strange wild animal,” and on the other side of the spectrum there is Blanche, the beautiful socialite. Rochester experiences both extremes of the spectrum through these two characters and learns that he is not satisfied with either. Rather, Rochester wants a woman more like Jane, a girl right in the middle of these two extremes. This realization helps strengthen the desire that Rochester has for Jane. This is very important in terms of the novel because it allows for a major conflict to be resolved. Throughout the story, Jane searches for love and believes that she finds it in Rochester. However, there is always one other woman that holds her back from having Rochester, whether it is the fact that Blanche is also trying to marry him or the fact that Bertha is alive. It is when these two opposite, extreme obstacles exist that Rochester realizes that he loves Jane (who is right in the middle of the two) and it is after the two go away that he is able to be happily with her (especially once he regains his eyesight). This solves the major conflict of the novel, which is Jane finding and being with her true love. However, none of this would have been possible had Bronte not used Bertha and Blanche as binaries to help Rochester realize who it is that he truly loves and makes him willing to spend his life with Jane.
The most significant binary in Jane Eyre is the contrast between society’s philosophy and Jane’s. Society has certain standards that have been created from centuries of tradition. These expectations include a class hierarchy and the subjugation of women. Jane’s system of beliefs, however, was not forged in the contemporary world that these views dominate. Abused by her initial family, she took refuge in fiction; she dreamed of far off lands with genies and fairies where reality was remote. In this ideal existence, Jane did not have to compromise with the world around her. She believed in equality for all, regardless of social class or gender. Fairy tales do not have discrimination and, whether she admits it or not, Jane refuses to stand for a world less idyllic than that in her own life.
The opposition of these two worlds overshadows the entire tale. While the world demands that Jane act one way, her idealism forces her to act differently. The most prominent example of this is when Jane leaves Rochester. Despite Rochester’s considerable wealth and resources, Jane flees Thornfield because she will not compromise on her dignity because of her lower class or gender, even if society expects her to. Only when she overcomes the limitations that those things impose upon her does she return. At this point, she is not conceding anything and she attains the fantasy life she deserves. At every major decision in the story, Jane follows her innate philosophy, not the one forced onto the masses.
Binaries in the novel serve to emphasize the character of Jane Eyre. Helen Burns, who possesses completely different religious ideas, is almost a foil to Jane. Unlike Jane, Helen never doubts the existence of God and Heaven. Also, when Jane cannot persevere the cruel acts of Mr. Brocklehurst Helen submits and blames herself for Ms. Scatcherd's harsh punishments. Another antithesis of Jane is Ms. Ingram, who is an epitome of a perfect Victorian woman. She is a gorgeous woman and, like many women of the time, hopes to obtain wealth through marriage with Mr. Rochester. However, Jane does not. Jane is a plain woman who just wants, through marriage, true love, not social status or security. Other binary that appear in the novel is Mrs. Fairfax and Mrs. Reed. Jane's childhood was horrible with Mrs. Reed's coldness and cruelty towards Jane. Later on in the novel, we see that her life becomes completely different from her childhood, with great kindness from Mrs. Fairfax. Binaries are a predominant literary device occurring throughout the novel. The most important of these are undeniablely the ones that contribute in developing Jane's character.
Although I hope not to ponder on that which seems obvious, I happen to think that Jane and Mr. Rochester present a substantial binary in Bronte's novel. She juxtaposes the two characters in mutual settings in order to truly exploit their social and economical extremes. However, we soon see as the story unfolds that this character foil is not strong enough to keep the two apart, so their two worlds merge, and they fall in love. I also agree with most in the sense that their exists a major binary between the men in the novel, though there are few. We first encounter Mr. Brocklehurst, who is conveyed as a harsh and blunt man who seeks control and oppression at the Lowood school. Then comes Mr. Rochester, who, although part of the same social status, is far more accepting of the difference between the hierarchy, thus allowing Jane into his life. Finally, we meet St. John, who is the binary of Rochester, in that he is the incarnation of faith and believes that marrying Jane is out of his duty to god, where Rochester believes marrying her is purely out of love. Clearly, this digression of characters represents Bronte's apparent portrayal of men.
I think the most important binary in Jane Eyre is the contrast between the two main male characters in the novel, Rochester and St. John. Considering Jane Eyre from the point of view that it is a romance novel, the plot logically revolves around the Jane's interactions with male characters. Rochester and St. John each represent unique pros and cons as potential husbands for Jane. When considering who to finally choose, Jane has to consider her own independence and how it relates to her love for her potential spouse. Rochester offers Jane love and passion but at the cost of independence because if she marries him or becomes his mistress she will be completely dependent on him. It is because of this situation that Jane decides not to marry Rochester until she is his equal. St. John offers Jane independence and important work as a missionary. However, Jane feels no love for St. John. Jane's decision between the two potential suitors is one of the main driving forces of the plot which makes the binary of St. John and Rochester the most important in the book. Also, Jane's ultimate decision to marry Rochester eliminates St. John from the novel and the novel comes to a conclusion. So, without the binary of Rochester and St. John, the novel's plot comes to an end, which means that this binary was the driving force in the plot.
Bronte uses this binary technique in Jane Eyre not only to create a number of symbolic character foils, (such as Mr. Rochester and St. Rivers,) but to show how these contrasting personalities bring out a duality in Jane's character. Jane's motivations are highly influenced by the presence of others, as she is willing to please those she cares about. Rivers brings out the side in Jane that seeks security, faith, and pragmatism, and Rochester brings out her intellectual, offbeat, and passionate side. I find this novel somewhat feminist for the reason that Jane Eyre's character is so intricately developed that her contrasts encompass the contrasts of the main male characters. Her duality makes her more intellectual and also a symbol of the Victorian period, which was probably divided by those who sought passion and those who preferred security, according to Bronte. We still feel that today, which is probably why this book is a classic.
on an side note...i think Bronte used symbolism with names, especially for Rivers and Rochester. Rivers obviously means the character emobides a smooth, cool/cold, spiritually pure nature. I looked up the name Rochester, and apparently it's derived from the French word for rock "Roche," which shows that Rochester is symbollically stony, rocky, uneven, and imperfect. I guess this is another example of binary symbolism.
I thought binary referred to the sorting of characters, events, locations, etc. into two separate groups for comparison. Concerning characters, I definitely think Bronte played up certain characteristics of secondary characters in order to emphasize a corresponding contrast in Jane. For example, Miss Ingram emphasized Jane’s lack of beauty and wealth, and Helen Burns brings up the question of passion vs. piety, like Tess mentioned earlier.
But I agree with everyone who said that the driving force behind the narrative is the binary of St. John and Mr. Rochester. Especially in the context of a romance novel, it makes sense that the two possible love interests propel the story forward, until Jane ultimately chooses Rochester, and all ends happily. But I also think that binary opposite extends further— not just binary in that there is contrast between opposite characters, but also between the different phases of Jane’s life. I feel like this governs the narrative, because it shows Jane’s response to different locations, people, and situations, which further characterizes her and propels the story of her growing up. For example, I think that her time at Gateshead is compared to her time at Moor House with the Rivers, by contrasting her different families and, consequently, Jane’s character with them. It also puts Jane into two economic groups, and although she is not treated as wealthy, at Gateshead, she is part of the higher class whereas at Moor House, she is broke. This shows Jane’s change, or lack of change, as a person with and without a loving family, money, passion, and social equality.
One of the most important and prevalent binaries in Bronte's narrative is love versus independence. Throughout the novel, Jane struggles to find a comfortable surrounding in which she is loved and is also an independent figure. With Mr. Rochester, Jane only has love. Unfortunately, she is the "other woman" as long as Bertha is still in the picture. Afraid of losing herself and the freedom she possessed, she did not marry Mr. Rochester. After traveling and living with St. John at the Moor House, Jane inherits a large amount of money. She is then economically independent, but when St. John asks her to marry him, she is not in love. Not to mention, he is her cousin and that is just repulsive. Jane still cannot find a balance between the two, until she returns to Thornfield. She marries Mr. Rochester with a combination of independence and love. Unlike before when Jane had little freedom, she agrees to marry Rochester at the end of the novel with her new-found wealth and also because Bertha is conveniently dead.
An important binary is the contrast between St. John's harsh religious piety and Rochester's passionate amorality. While Jane's sense of duty (her head) is drawn to St. John, the romantic side of her is still faithful to Rochester (her heart). This is an important conflict/theme that is prevalent throughout the literary world. Jane Eyre is not the first character to face the choice between honor/duty and romantic love.
What I find interesting is that although Jane does choose Rochester in the end, she does so without compromising the religious side of herself. By rejecting the offer of becoming a mistress, she chooses a life without sin. In the end, she is able to choose a middle ground between St. John and Rochester, a life of happiness because she has balanced duty and love.
Speaking of middle ground, it is interesting to note that Jane seems to fall into a grey area between black and white. When the novel begins, she is an orphan living with relatives. Although is not a servant, she is a dependent. She is neither upper nor lower class. As a governess, she is well-educated but without status or money. Jane is neither pretty nor ugly, merely plain. Although Bronte does use many binaries in the novel, Jane seems to always fit somewhere in between.
After reading some posts, I assume binary to mean a pair of opposites/contrasts. In that case, I feel like social class is the main binary in Jane Eyre. Although Jane, like Mrs. Sparsit in Hard Times, is sophisticated, smart, and cultured (upper class), she is also poor and essentially powerless in her position at Thornfield (lower class). This binary represents one of the main themes of the novel, and lies behind many conflicts throughout the book.
This made me think about what it truly means to be "upper class"/"elite"/"aristocratic." In our society, I feel that these terms simply refer to wealth; however, when I think of the upper crust of society, I picture old British men sipping tea and saying things like "indeed." So really, for me, being upper class is more a lifestyle reflected in ones manners as opposed to ones wealth. After all, there are some rich people who possess no hint of culture.
22 comments:
If it is meant by binary that Bronte implements an array of secondary figures, than Rochester would be the most dominant. His role, unlike any others' in the novel, is to be something for Jane to strive towards. With all the other characters, be it Mrs. Temple, or Helen Burns, Jane may have affection for them, but never makes it her ultimate goal to remain with them. With Rochester, Jane sees a prosperous, moreover, happy life; one that does not consist of the live and leave approach that has ruled her life throughout the piece.
If by binary you mean the use of opposites in Jane Eyre, I think that one of the most important uses of contrasts in the book revolves around the difference between the role of women versus the role of men. This seems to govern the novel starting at the beginning with John Reed's treatment of Jane, which leads to Mr. Brocklehurst's treatment of Jane, which leads to Rochester's treatment of Jane, as well as St. John's treatment of Jane. They all seem to hold control over what she does.
As Jane says, "Women are supposed to be very calm generally: but women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties, and a field for their efforts as much as their brothers do; they suffer from too rigid a restraint, too absolute a stagnation, precisely as men would suffer; and it is narrow-minded in their more privileged fellow-creatures to say that they ought to confine themselves to making puddings and knitting stockings, to playing on the piano and embroidering bags. It is thoughtless to condemn them, or laugh at them, if they seek to do more or learn more than custom has pronounced necessary for their sex."
Sorry to use such a long quote, but I feel that when Jane says this, she best explains her unhappiness with the system of gender roles. And with, for example, Rochester, he controls what goes on at Thornfield, and he controls what the people who work for him do as well. So the fact that he wields so much power contrasts with Jane's lack of power. Her attempt to be equal to the men around her is mostly unsuccessful. She tries to speak up for herself, which helps her at times, yet in reality, she does not have much control to change the way things work in her life, the way men around her seem to always be superior. This is the case until she returns to Rochester a changed person and claims "I am an independent woman now," for she has inherited a great sum of money and can now be her "own mistress." She finally finds her place and acquires a higher position as a woman in society, so she can make her own decisions in her life without being completely dependent on a man.
If I am interpreting this prompt correctly, it states that Charlotte Bronte uses a variety of opposites to emphasize the strengths and weaknesses of elements of Jane Eyre like characters and places. I feel one binary component that spans nearly the whole novel is the fact that Mr. Rochester and St. John have opposite personalities, allowing Jane to realize how strong her feelings are for Mr. Rochester. While Mr. Rochester proposes to Jane in a fit of euphoria and spontaneity, St. John proposes marriage because it is a sensible choice for both him and Jane, so they can go on missions together. While Mr. Rochester is playful with Jane, arguing with her, teasing her, and complimenting her [and of course calling her an elf/imp :),] St. John is distant and cold, only complimenting her on her fast learning ability and philanthropic potential so she will travel with him as a missionary. This contrast is consistent from when Jane leaves Thornfield to the end of the novel; Bronte uses it to show why Jane returns to Mr. Rochester.
I agree completely with michelle. okay so I am going to stretch this a little. I am going to use the binary of man and woman. Men tend to be thought of as more important than women, men are at the center of discussions while women are on the sides. I think Jane Eyre could be considered a feminist novel. The main reason I think this is a feminist novel is that Jane does not marry Rochester until she is financially independent of him. However, people can argue that it is not a feminist novel in regard to Bertha Mason being locked up in an attic.
I want to reiterate the idea of binary meaning two components. In the case of Jane Eyre, many characters exist to serve as antithesis of each other. This idea is important because it showcases the different characters, ideologies and practices that Jane encounters during the novel.
I agree that one of the ideas that Charlotte Bronte addresses in the novel is the contrasting views of men and women. By creating Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester and her stay with St. John, the author shows how men would operate in relationships. For example, like St. John, men tend to have different expectations of how a woman should operate and conduct herself (i.e. St. John wanting Jane to become a missionary's wife).
However, not including Mr. Rochester and St. John, other characters exist in the novel that serve as opposites. For example. Mr. Brocklehurst and Helen Burns contrast each other. Brocklehurst has a strict view of God, viewing him as all powerful and unforgiving. Upon her soon demise, Helen has more of a pacifying view, claiming that God will accept her graciously despite her shortcomings.
Another example of antithesis is seen with both sides of Jane's family, the Reeds and the Rivers. The Reed family is not the most nurturing; they treat Jane poorly and even turn on themselves. The Rivers are more inspiring; both sisters, Mary and Diana, serve as role models for Jane. It's interesting for the author to have two seemingly different families and place them under the same genealogy.
The characters in Jane Eyre serve as contrasts in the novel. They're all interesting to examine and explore because they highlight the different adventures and attitudes that Jane comes across in the novel. In the end of the novel, Jane can be described as loving, independent, educated and caring person. All of Jane's morals, values and standards are shaped by the supporting characters in the novel.
I think that Bronte uses the technique of binary in the sense that though there is one main story, that of Jane's life, there are a variety of subplots, each providing a new view of the situation. The majority characters seem to have opposites, and their lives run parallel to each other. Jane and Helen Burns are an example of this. They both attend Lowood, but approach life their in a very different manner, thus they encounter extremely different outcomes. Jane asserts herself, while Helen shrinks away from the world. Thus Jane ends up coping with Lowood, and Helen dies. Rochester and St. John are another example of two very different characters. There is also a large contrast between the 'family life' Jane has at Gateshead with the Reeds, and the love and acceptance she finds with the Rivers. Throughout the story run these threads connecting the characters by exposing their differences. I would venture to say that the most obvious and prominent comparison of characters is that of Rochester and St. John becuase it provides the greatest visible plot spur. If it were not for St. John's company and proposal Jane may never have returned to Thornfield to see what became of Rochester. They are so distinctly different that their presence when contrasted with one another plays a major role in governing the novel.
Ultimately, Jane Eyre is a novel about a woman finding her place in the world. Thus, the most important binary of the novel deals with two different types of lives. An everpresent binary exists between a life of passion, and a life of piety. This theme is first introduced through the characterof Helen Burns. Devout and disciplined, Helen accepts the oppression of her elders with humble forebearance. Jane cannot understand this passivity; she would prefer to lash out in just retaliation. A choice between a life of passion and piety most literally presents itself to Jane when she facesmarriage proposals from both St. John and Mr. Rochester. The dark, morally questionnable Mr. Rochester represents a marriage of love and earthly pleasure. St. John represents a marriage with a higher purpose; with him, Jane will be but an instrument of divine will. Ultimately, Jane's life will occupy a comfortable middle ground within this rigid binary. She will live with the man she loves, but take on an almost pious, religious role in aiding his revival, and facilitating his deliverance from the sins of his youth.
I think that Charlotte Bronte uses binary to create character foils. The first example that popped into my head was Jane’s relationship with Blanche Ingram, the hot-shot gold-digger attached to Mr. Rochester by the hip. Jane actually draws Miss Ingram’s portrait using Mrs. Fairfax’s description, draws a portrait of her own simple, unattractive self, and refers to the two when she’s foolish enough to imagine Mr. Rochester harboring romantic feelings for her. Miss Ingram is everything Jane is not. She is “the noble bust, the sloping shoulders, the graceful neck,” and Jane is plain (175). Her social status and heritage make her a worthy bride to Mr. Rochester, whereas Jane’s childhood as a charity case makes her feel incompetent. However, although Jane’s childhood causes her to strive for love and acceptance- a hunger that Miss Ingram mocks with her haughty laugh and possessiveness- she has an identity.
Her self-awareness conflicts with Mr. Rochester’s societal dominance as a man. Binary is used again as Mr. Rochester tries to don 'Janet' (ew) with pearls and luxurious gowns. She catches a glimpse of the woman she never wants to become. Although there are other strong character foils (i.e. Mr. Rochester and St. John or Mr. Brocklehurst and Helen Burns, as others have mentioned) I thought that the contrast between Jane and Miss Ingram, and the contrast between Jane and ‘Janet’ revealed the most of this novel’s protagonist and her narrative.
Of the many examples of binary used in the novel, Bronte's use of secondary characters is the most important. Specifically, the character of Helen Burns governs the thoughts and actions of Jane Eyre throughout the novel. After her death, Jane begins to adhere to the rules of Lowood and later influences her in the case of her love affair with Mr. Rochester. Helen Burns is likened to Christ in that she allows herself to be punished: she is a martyr. Thus, she is then the opposite of Jane. Jane is influenced by her, and this is proven by the fact that she gives up Mr. Rochester to retain her principals. She leaves him because she wishes to be more like Helen in her actions, even though she falters and goes back to him in the end.
Bronte's novel, as the title suggests, tells the story of Jane Eyre's life and her development as a person. The author utilizes binary as a tool for developing Jane's character. Whenever Jane meets a new character, and she meets a vast number of individual's throughout the novel, the author creates comparisons. One major comparison exists between her life with the Reeds, one of abuse and often fear, and with the Rivers, one of family and love. Another important exmaple of binary involves Helen Burns. The novel compares the two girls and the way that Jane lashes out when she feels attacked versus Helen who accepts abuse without complaint, cementing her image as a Christ figure. In addition, an important comparison exists between Rochester and St. John, as both man propose marriage to Jane. She must in turn choose between love and a sense of a higher calling. Her choice to seek Rochester and pursue their love shows how Jane changed from the beginning of the novel. Jane after finding familial love with the Rivers can pusue romantic love with Rochester. The many highly symbolic occurences throughout the novel support the idea that all of these comparisons exist purposefully, and that they exist in order to further the development of Jane's character.
I took binary to mean the importance of secondary characters, and if that is the case I think the most important secondary character is St.John. While Jane struggles to keep her passions from governing her actions, St. John lives solely by principles. Jane soon sees he lives a very dry life. She describes him as someone who is cross when someone else is smiling instead of studying or doing something "useful". I feel like seeing him live without any pleasure influences her to go back to Rochester. She has no way of knowing his crazy wife "happened" to kill herself, so as far as Jane is concerned Rochester is still off limits. However, seeing St. John take no risks at all influences her to risk the whole new life she has created just to see him. Jane left Rochester to pursue a life without passion, but St. John shows her that a life without passion isn't very appealing.
Being that "Jane Eyre" is dominated by the different interactions of characters,the binary technique definitely governs the majority of the book. Bronte uses the technique to form the absolute opposition of the main characters in the novel. There are three main pairs of characters that are foils of one another: Jane and Helen Burns, St. John and Mr. Rochester, and Helen Burns and Mr. Brocklehurst.
Helen Burns is a foil of Jane Eyre, because her personality is much more understated than Jane's. Helen is very submissive, whereas Jane is short tempered and always asserts herself. Jane always tries to stand up for herself whereas Helen ignores punishments in life and looks forward to happiness in the after life guaranteed by Christianity. She is also a foil to Mr. Brocklehurst. Though they are both devout Christians, they practice their religion in two very different ways. Mr. Brockelhurst represents a much more rigid form of Christianity that uses discourages happiness found in earthly things. Helen Burns however, does not use her religion for power but sees it as a means of tolerance. Also, she rejects the harsh conditions Brocklehurst imposes and uses her faith to find satisfaction.
Mr. Rochester and St. John are foils because of their differing personalities, values in life, and social statues. St. John is a very introverted, self involved man who is generally quiet. Mr. Rochester, on the other hand, always speaks his mind and is very outspoken, almost to the point of being gruff. Mr. Rochester values things that could be depicted as sinful. (ie his love of women, his preoccupation with social status, etc.) St. Jphn Rivers is a very pious man who is not concerned with materialistic things. He prefers to spend his life as a missionary while Rochester prefers to pursue matters of fortune. Lastly, Mr. Rochester and St. John come from completely separate social classes. Rivers comes from a very humble background and does not have much to his name, whereas Rochester is one of the nobles. constantly moving between estates and holding or attending parties that may last for weeks at a time.
When using the interpretation that “binary” refers to opposites, I think that an important comparison helps make Rochester’s opinion change, which in the end benefits Jane and helps resolve a major conflict. This is the use of the characters Bertha Mason and Blanche Ingram. On one side there is Bertha, Rochester’s crazy wife who is originally described as “some strange wild animal,” and on the other side of the spectrum there is Blanche, the beautiful socialite. Rochester experiences both extremes of the spectrum through these two characters and learns that he is not satisfied with either. Rather, Rochester wants a woman more like Jane, a girl right in the middle of these two extremes. This realization helps strengthen the desire that Rochester has for Jane. This is very important in terms of the novel because it allows for a major conflict to be resolved. Throughout the story, Jane searches for love and believes that she finds it in Rochester. However, there is always one other woman that holds her back from having Rochester, whether it is the fact that Blanche is also trying to marry him or the fact that Bertha is alive. It is when these two opposite, extreme obstacles exist that Rochester realizes that he loves Jane (who is right in the middle of the two) and it is after the two go away that he is able to be happily with her (especially once he regains his eyesight). This solves the major conflict of the novel, which is Jane finding and being with her true love. However, none of this would have been possible had Bronte not used Bertha and Blanche as binaries to help Rochester realize who it is that he truly loves and makes him willing to spend his life with Jane.
The most significant binary in Jane Eyre is the contrast between society’s philosophy and Jane’s. Society has certain standards that have been created from centuries of tradition. These expectations include a class hierarchy and the subjugation of women. Jane’s system of beliefs, however, was not forged in the contemporary world that these views dominate. Abused by her initial family, she took refuge in fiction; she dreamed of far off lands with genies and fairies where reality was remote. In this ideal existence, Jane did not have to compromise with the world around her. She believed in equality for all, regardless of social class or gender. Fairy tales do not have discrimination and, whether she admits it or not, Jane refuses to stand for a world less idyllic than that in her own life.
The opposition of these two worlds overshadows the entire tale. While the world demands that Jane act one way, her idealism forces her to act differently. The most prominent example of this is when Jane leaves Rochester. Despite Rochester’s considerable wealth and resources, Jane flees Thornfield because she will not compromise on her dignity because of her lower class or gender, even if society expects her to. Only when she overcomes the limitations that those things impose upon her does she return. At this point, she is not conceding anything and she attains the fantasy life she deserves. At every major decision in the story, Jane follows her innate philosophy, not the one forced onto the masses.
Binaries in the novel serve to emphasize the character of Jane Eyre. Helen Burns, who possesses completely different religious ideas, is almost a foil to Jane. Unlike Jane, Helen never doubts the existence of God and Heaven. Also, when Jane cannot persevere the cruel acts of Mr. Brocklehurst Helen submits and blames herself for Ms. Scatcherd's harsh punishments. Another antithesis of Jane is Ms. Ingram, who is an epitome of a perfect Victorian woman. She is a gorgeous woman and, like many women of the time, hopes to obtain wealth through marriage with Mr. Rochester. However, Jane does not. Jane is a plain woman who just wants, through marriage, true love, not social status or security. Other binary that appear in the novel is Mrs. Fairfax and Mrs. Reed. Jane's childhood was horrible with Mrs. Reed's coldness and cruelty towards Jane. Later on in the novel, we see that her life becomes completely different from her childhood, with great kindness from Mrs. Fairfax. Binaries are a predominant literary device occurring throughout the novel. The most important of these are undeniablely the ones that contribute in developing Jane's character.
Although I hope not to ponder on that which seems obvious, I happen to think that Jane and Mr. Rochester present a substantial binary in Bronte's novel. She juxtaposes the two characters in mutual settings in order to truly exploit their social and economical extremes. However, we soon see as the story unfolds that this character foil is not strong enough to keep the two apart, so their two worlds merge, and they fall in love. I also agree with most in the sense that their exists a major binary between the men in the novel, though there are few. We first encounter Mr. Brocklehurst, who is conveyed as a harsh and blunt man who seeks control and oppression at the Lowood school. Then comes Mr. Rochester, who, although part of the same social status, is far more accepting of the difference between the hierarchy, thus allowing Jane into his life. Finally, we meet St. John, who is the binary of Rochester, in that he is the incarnation of faith and believes that marrying Jane is out of his duty to god, where Rochester believes marrying her is purely out of love. Clearly, this digression of characters represents Bronte's apparent portrayal of men.
I think the most important binary in Jane Eyre is the contrast between the two main male characters in the novel, Rochester and St. John. Considering Jane Eyre from the point of view that it is a romance novel, the plot logically revolves around the Jane's interactions with male characters. Rochester and St. John each represent unique pros and cons as potential husbands for Jane. When considering who to finally choose, Jane has to consider her own independence and how it relates to her love for her potential spouse. Rochester offers Jane love and passion but at the cost of independence because if she marries him or becomes his mistress she will be completely dependent on him. It is because of this situation that Jane decides not to marry Rochester until she is his equal. St. John offers Jane independence and important work as a missionary. However, Jane feels no love for St. John. Jane's decision between the two potential suitors is one of the main driving forces of the plot which makes the binary of St. John and Rochester the most important in the book. Also, Jane's ultimate decision to marry Rochester eliminates St. John from the novel and the novel comes to a conclusion. So, without the binary of Rochester and St. John, the novel's plot comes to an end, which means that this binary was the driving force in the plot.
Bronte uses this binary technique in Jane Eyre not only to create a number of symbolic character foils, (such as Mr. Rochester and St. Rivers,) but to show how these contrasting personalities bring out a duality in Jane's character. Jane's motivations are highly influenced by the presence of others, as she is willing to please those she cares about. Rivers brings out the side in Jane that seeks security, faith, and pragmatism, and Rochester brings out her intellectual, offbeat, and passionate side. I find this novel somewhat feminist for the reason that Jane Eyre's character is so intricately developed that her contrasts encompass the contrasts of the main male characters. Her duality makes her more intellectual and also a symbol of the Victorian period, which was probably divided by those who sought passion and those who preferred security, according to Bronte. We still feel that today, which is probably why this book is a classic.
on an side note...i think Bronte used symbolism with names, especially for Rivers and Rochester. Rivers obviously means the character emobides a smooth, cool/cold, spiritually pure nature. I looked up the name Rochester, and apparently it's derived from the French word for rock "Roche," which shows that Rochester is symbollically stony, rocky, uneven, and imperfect. I guess this is another example of binary symbolism.
I thought binary referred to the sorting of characters, events, locations, etc. into two separate groups for comparison. Concerning characters, I definitely think Bronte played up certain characteristics of secondary characters in order to emphasize a corresponding contrast in Jane. For example, Miss Ingram emphasized Jane’s lack of beauty and wealth, and Helen Burns brings up the question of passion vs. piety, like Tess mentioned earlier.
But I agree with everyone who said that the driving force behind the narrative is the binary of St. John and Mr. Rochester. Especially in the context of a romance novel, it makes sense that the two possible love interests propel the story forward, until Jane ultimately chooses Rochester, and all ends happily. But I also think that binary opposite extends further— not just binary in that there is contrast between opposite characters, but also between the different phases of Jane’s life. I feel like this governs the narrative, because it shows Jane’s response to different locations, people, and situations, which further characterizes her and propels the story of her growing up. For example, I think that her time at Gateshead is compared to her time at Moor House with the Rivers, by contrasting her different families and, consequently, Jane’s character with them. It also puts Jane into two economic groups, and although she is not treated as wealthy, at Gateshead, she is part of the higher class whereas at Moor House, she is broke. This shows Jane’s change, or lack of change, as a person with and without a loving family, money, passion, and social equality.
One of the most important and prevalent binaries in Bronte's narrative is love versus independence. Throughout the novel, Jane struggles to find a comfortable surrounding in which she is loved and is also an independent figure. With Mr. Rochester, Jane only has love. Unfortunately, she is the "other woman" as long as Bertha is still in the picture. Afraid of losing herself and the freedom she possessed, she did not marry Mr. Rochester. After traveling and living with St. John at the Moor House, Jane inherits a large amount of money. She is then economically independent, but when St. John asks her to marry him, she is not in love. Not to mention, he is her cousin and that is just repulsive. Jane still cannot find a balance between the two, until she returns to Thornfield. She marries Mr. Rochester with a combination of independence and love. Unlike before when Jane had little freedom, she agrees to marry Rochester at the end of the novel with her new-found wealth and also because Bertha is conveniently dead.
An important binary is the contrast between St. John's harsh religious piety and Rochester's passionate amorality. While Jane's sense of duty (her head) is drawn to St. John, the romantic side of her is still faithful to Rochester (her heart). This is an important conflict/theme that is prevalent throughout the literary world. Jane Eyre is not the first character to face the choice between honor/duty and romantic love.
What I find interesting is that although Jane does choose Rochester in the end, she does so without compromising the religious side of herself. By rejecting the offer of becoming a mistress, she chooses a life without sin. In the end, she is able to choose a middle ground between St. John and Rochester, a life of happiness because she has balanced duty and love.
Speaking of middle ground, it is interesting to note that Jane seems to fall into a grey area between black and white. When the novel begins, she is an orphan living with relatives. Although is not a servant, she is a dependent. She is neither upper nor lower class. As a governess, she is well-educated but without status or money. Jane is neither pretty nor ugly, merely plain. Although Bronte does use many binaries in the novel, Jane seems to always fit somewhere in between.
After reading some posts, I assume binary to mean a pair of opposites/contrasts. In that case, I feel like social class is the main binary in Jane Eyre. Although Jane, like Mrs. Sparsit in Hard Times, is sophisticated, smart, and cultured (upper class), she is also poor and essentially powerless in her position at Thornfield (lower class). This binary represents one of the main themes of the novel, and lies behind many conflicts throughout the book.
This made me think about what it truly means to be "upper class"/"elite"/"aristocratic." In our society, I feel that these terms simply refer to wealth; however, when I think of the upper crust of society, I picture old British men sipping tea and saying things like "indeed." So really, for me, being upper class is more a lifestyle reflected in ones manners as opposed to ones wealth. After all, there are some rich people who possess no hint of culture.
Post a Comment