Religion and Evangelicalism in Jane Eyre Essay - 860 Words

Religion and Evangelicalism in Jane Eyre When orphans of the nineteenth century were able to receive an education, it usually came from a charity instution. These charity institutions were founded on a basis of religion. This is the case in Jane Eyre for Mr. Brocklehurst is a clergyman who owns and overlooks the Institution that Jane became a part of. Janes conversation with the newly met Helen Burns exposes this to the reader. Jane asks the question, Who was Naomi Brocklehurst? The reader finds out that she was the lady who built the new part of the Institution. It is her son, Mr. Brocklehurst who overlooks and directs everything. At Lowood he is the treasurer and manager of the establishment. It is also at this time that†¦show more content†¦While she is still in the care of Mrs. Reed, she first meets Mr. Brocklehurst. In her conversation with him, he asks her many questions about her daily prayers, whether or not she knows her Psalms, and if she reads the Bible faithfully. When her answers do not comply with wha t he expects, he, too, thinks that she is wicked (65; ch. 4). Further, her first full day at Lowood begins with over an hour worth of religion (prayers, Scriptures, chapters in the Bible) and then before and after breakfast, grace is said and hymns are sung (77-78; ch. 5). Jane even receives more religious teaching from her new friend, Helen Burns. Helen says, the Bible bids us return good for evil (88; ch. 6). Later, shortly before Helen dies, she tells Jane I am sure there is a future state; I believe God is good; I can resign my immortal part to Him without any misgiving. God is my father; God is my friend; I love Him; I believe He loves me (113; ch. 9). Mr. Brocklehurst, when upset about seeing curls on a childs head says, here in an evangelical, charitable establishment (96; ch. 7) and even before she enters the Institution, he speaks of the Christian duties and Christian grace that the Institution holds (66; ch. 4); The church exercised an unchallenged domination over education (Vaughan 3). Jane is effected by Lowood Institution.Show MoreRelatedMessages to the Reader in Jane Eyre, a Novel by Charlotte Brontà «728 Words   |  3 PagesJane Eyre, a novel by Charlotte Brontà «, contains several notable themes and messages sent to its readers. Jane Eyre is a coming of age novel that is a story of a girls quest for equality and happiness. A common theme that recurs throughout the novel is the importance of independence.Charlotte Brontà « utilizes several techniques to convey this message, incorporating her personal experiences, as well as including symbolism and motifs. Charlotte Bronte subjects Jane to several conflicts that occur becauseRead MoreJane, By Jane Eyre Essay2110 Words   |  9 PagesThroughout the first section of the novel, we are constantly reminded of the barriers in which Jane is suppressed by. Through this figurative element we can come to terms with the development of the character of Jane Eyre. Jane is an intelligent, honest, plain-featured young girl forced to contend with oppression, inequality, and hardship. Although she meets with a series of individuals who threaten her autonomy, Jane repeatedly succeeds at asserting herself and maintains her principles of justice, human