Jane Eyre: An Autobiography

Jane Eyre: An Autobiography by Charlotte Brontë follows the life of its titular heroine from childhood to adulthood portraying her struggles growth and pursuit of love and independence. Orphaned as a child Jane is raised by her unkind aunt Mrs. Reed and later sent to the harsh Lowood Institution where she endures strict discipline but also gains education and friendship. As a young woman she becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall where she meets the enigmatic Mr. Rochester. Despite their growing affection Jane discovers that Rochester is already married to the mentally ill Bertha Mason hidden in the attic. Heartbroken but resolute Jane leaves Thornfield choosing integrity over passion.Jane's journey leads her to the Rivers family where she finds kinship and receives an inheritance granting her financial independence. St. John Rivers a clergyman proposes marriage and a life of missionary work but Jane refuses realizing she cannot sacrifice love for duty. Drawn back to Rochester she finds him blind and humbled after a fire destroyed Thornfield and killed Bertha. With their social and emotional barriers removed Jane and Rochester marry achieving a union based on mutual respect and love. The novel blending Gothic and realist elements explores themes of self-respect morality and the search for belonging.