This essay is on Jane Eyre. The question was: How does Jane's character change through the course of the novel?

Essay by laa_101kittyHigh School, 10th gradeA+, November 2008

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From her troubles with the abusive Reed family, her friendships at Lowood, her love of Mr Rochester and her time with the Rivers family, Jane's character remains strong and vigilant despite the hardships she endures. Through the course of the novel, Jane's character changes slightly but moreover reinforces itself as Jane uses people, situations and her personal experiences to gain knowledge, and assist her gaining her full character.

From when she was a child, Jane had forthright values of herself and an example is when she reprimanded John Reed for attacking her with a book, “ Wicked and cruel boy! I said. You are like a murderer – you are like a slave driver – You are like the Roman emperors!” She was exiled and alienated by the Reed family, creating a very independent spiritHer character is more quick to concise and imaginative whilst also being perceptive. “ I was a discord in Gateshead Hall.

I was like no one there; I had nothing in harmony with Mrs Reed or her children or her chosen vassalage.” She knew that the Reed family strongly dislike her and the reason behind it. Justice and principle was also seemingly very important to her then.

At Lowood School, there was a harsh and strict environment but the environment was eased for Jane by friends such as Helen and Miss Temple who treated her with respect and care. Miss Temple is described by Helen as “Miss Temple is very good, and very clever ; she is above the rest because she knows far more than they do.” This is also the way that Jane feels about Miss Temple due to her understanding of the children's feelings and needs. This was contrasted with Mr Brocklehurst who was a hypocrite and treated Jane and the rest of...