Reflections on social development and values in Victorian England as depicted in Jane Eyre

Intermediate Diploma Thesis from the year 2019 in the subject English Language and Literature Studies - Literature, grade: 1,0, language: English, abstract: Jane Eyre, one of the most significant novels of the Victorian Era, provides reflections on the period and its society. This paper examines the changes and developments of Victorian England. It further deals with the literary situation and places Charlotte Bronte's novel Jane Eyre in its historical context. After a short summary, there follows an examination of the issues Jane Eyre revolts against. Her criticism against the then accepted gender roles and her liberal idea of womanhood indicate a strong female emancipation. Through an interpretation of certain passages, Jane's demand for equality of gender becomes evident. Jane Eyre also reflects on Victorian morality and people's idea of religion. The most important Christian conventions are presented illustrated by characters matching those different interpretations of Christianity. The then often valid severity in faith is against Jane's idea of a good and loving God.