1. The Victorian Era

2. Queen Victoria Reigned 1837 – 1901 Longest reign in British history
This queen maintained a sense of dignity and decorum that restored the average person’s high opinion of the monarch after a series of ineffective leaders.

3. The Time Period
Shift from ownership of land to a modern urban economy based on trade and manufacturing
The Industrial Revolution
Economic and social change
Democratization
Challenges to religious faith
Advancements of scientific knowledge
Changes in the role of women

4. The Victorian Novel Realistic portrayal of social life
Social relevance
Plain style
Narrative of an individuals’ inner thoughts
Women’s rights
Poverty
A voice to the voiceless

5. Charlotte Brontë Currer Bell Born: 1816 Died: 1855
Masculine  less like to be dismissed as unimportant
Born: 1816
Died: 1855
Age 38 of complications during her 1st pregnancy.
Sisters Anne and Emily (Wuthering Heights) were also novelists.

6. Jane Eyre Victorian Novel Gothic Novel  mysteries, supernatural
Coming-of-age story  protagonist goes against the pressures and expectations of society.
Characters represent different social and economic classes.
Themes of reform: better political representation, working conditions, and education.
Meta-literature  addressing the reader

7. Themes Need for Love Family Independence Social class and rules
Gender roles
Religion
Staying true to yourself
Importance of Education

8. Novel Elements Imagery Personification Symbols Fire & Ice The Red-Room
Eyes
Food
Ghosts

9. Discussion Questions
In a recent adaptation of the novel for television, the story began with Jane’s running into Mr. Rochester. Are chapters unnecessary? How does our understanding of Jane’s childhood and child self contribute to our understanding of her as an adult?

10. Discussion Questions
What is the significance of specific houses and characters’ relationships to them?
Gateshead, Lowood, Thornfield, Ferndean
What is the significance of homes and domesticity generally throughout the novel?

11. Discussion Questions
In what ways, and for what reasons, is Jane portrayed as an outsider?
Consider Jane and Rochester’s relationship: What do they have in common; How do they establish a relationship; Is their relationship reasonable?