1. Jane Eyre Volume 1, Chapters 1-7
Charlotte Bronte

2. Charlotte Bronte

3. Notable Characters
John Reed: Mrs. Reed’s son and Jane’s cousin who regularly bullied and punished her.
Mrs. Sarah Reed: Jane’s aunt. She resents Jane’s presence in Gateshead and treats Jane with malice.
Bessie: The nurse at Gateshead. She serves as Jane’s first mother figure.

4. Mr. Brocklehurst: The “treasurer and manager” of Lowood School
Mr. Brocklehurst: The “treasurer and manager” of Lowood School. His Christian beliefs do not coincide with Jane’s.
Helen Burns: Jane’s friend at Lowood School whose Christian beliefs also do not coincide with Jane’s.
Miss Temple: Superintendent at Lowood. A mother substitute for Jane.

5. Things to consider
Mood and setting
Jane vs. John
In the opening chapter Bronte provides a description of the weather. How does this establish the mood?
Why is it ironic that Jane is punished and guilty in the incident with John Reed?
From that encounter what can you observe from Jane’s behavior?

6. What does the red room symbolize?
Narration
What does the red room symbolize?
Journal specific details that lead you to that symbol.
Think about the genre and the feelings she has in the room.
First person.
Is the point of view effective?
Can we believe Jane as a narrator?

7. Religion Compare their religious beliefs
Helen Burns
Mr. Brocklehurst
Compare their religious beliefs
and how Jane responds to them.

8. Journal
Examine the harsh living conditions present at Lowood. What are some of the difficulties encountered by Jane and the other girls? What message does this send about the life of orphaned children?
How do Miss Temple and Helen Burns affect Jane’s attitudes about life? Give examples to support your ideas.