Jane Eyre: Context (AQA GCSE English Literature): Revision Notes

Victorian England and Social Class: Jane Eyre, published in 1847, is set during the Victorian era, a time marked by strict social hierarchies and clearly defined roles for men and women. The novel explores how these rigid social structures limit opportunities, especially for women and the poor. Jane's journey from a poor orphan to an independent woman challenges the class system of the time, with Brontë using her character to critique the idea that a person's value is determined by their social status, advocating instead for individual character and moral integrity.

The Role of Women: Jane Eyre was written at a time when women's roles were largely confined to the home, with limited opportunities for independence. The novel critiques these gender roles, presenting Jane as a new kind of heroine who values her autonomy and refuses to be dominated by male authority. Brontë's portrayal of Jane's insistence on equality in her relationships, particularly with Mr. Rochester, reflects the emerging feminist ideas of the period. The novel highlights issues of gender inequality, including the lack of educational and economic opportunities for women, and calls for greater respect for women's rights and independence.

Religious Beliefs and Morality: Religion plays a significant role in Jane Eyre, reflecting the strong religious values of Victorian society. The novel presents various interpretations of Christianity, from the harsh, hypocritical religiosity of characters like Mr. Brocklehurst to the more compassionate and forgiving faith of Helen Burns. Jane herself embodies a personal, internalised form of Christianity that emphasises love, forgiveness, and moral integrity. Brontë uses these differing religious perspectives to explore themes of hypocrisy, morality, and the true nature of Christian values, critiquing those who use religion as a means of control and oppression.

The Gothic Tradition: Jane Eyre incorporates elements of the Gothic literary tradition, which was popular at the time. The novel includes mysterious settings, such as Thornfield Hall, and explores themes of madness, the supernatural, and emotional turmoil. Characters like Bertha Mason, the "madwoman in the attic," and the eerie atmosphere of Thornfield contribute to the Gothic tone of the novel. Brontë uses these Gothic elements to heighten the emotional intensity of the story and to symbolise the darker, hidden aspects of human experience, particularly repressed desires and fears.

Charlotte Brontë's Life and Influences: Brontë's personal experiences as a governess and her struggles with societal expectations deeply influenced Jane Eyre. The novel reflects Brontë's frustrations with the limited opportunities available to women and the oppressive nature of societal norms. Her portrayal of Jane's journey towards self-respect, independence, and fulfilment is often seen as semi-autobiographical, drawing on Brontë's own life experiences and the challenges she faced as a woman in a patriarchal society. The novel's exploration of personal growth and the importance of self-reliance mirrors Brontë's own challenges in establishing herself as a writer in a male-dominated literary world.

Romanticism and Individualism: Jane Eyre is influenced by the Romantic movement, which valued emotion, nature, and individualism. Jane's character represents the Romantic ideal of the individual who remains true to herself despite societal pressures. Her deep emotional life, connection to nature, and belief in personal integrity and self-expression are in line with Romantic ideals. Brontë's use of first-person narration allows readers to closely follow Jane's inner thoughts and feelings, further emphasising the novel's focus on individual experience and subjective reality.