Examples Of Religion In Jane Eyre

Religion in Jane Eyre: An Exploration of Different Beliefs

The novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontё explores religion and how it affects the lives of different people. Set in the early 19th century, religion was a played an important part in the lives of people at the time. In the course of the story, Jane, the protagonist, encounters three characters who are focused on religion: Mr. Brocklehurst, Helen Burns, and St. John. They all view religion differently, and their beliefs guide their lives and shape their personalities. Some use it as an excuse to be cruel, others use it as a reason to shut off their feelings.

Jane’s childhood takes place in a school named Lowood for the most part, where, for the first time, she encounters a very

Her beliefs caused her to let people walk all over her without caring one bit, and looking forward to death more than life. Miss Scratcherd, a despicable woman who happens to be Helen’s teacher, constantly nags at Helen for the most minute of things. For these little infractions she imparts severe chastisement. When Jane comments on the impropriety of Miss Scratherd´s actions, Helen coolly says, “She is severe; she dislikes my faults” (55). Helen does not acknowledge the fact that the punishments are too much for their so called crime. She explains that her religion has a principle that all discipline is good and makes for a better person. For this reason, Helen also takes these unjust punishments from her teacher with utmost forbearance. Since she is so devoted to her religion and its beliefs, she acts like this throughout her everyday life. She becomes similar to an automaton, never expressing her emotions or stopping people who treat her in terrible ways. From an outside perspective it is clear that her beliefs are harming her. Pity grows for her as the reader hopes she will stand up for herself and not get beat down. The solemn little girl also speaks much of death, going so far as to tell Jane that she “lives... looking to the end” (59). When she thinks of death, she becomes hopeful, happy, and peaceful. In many ways that is perceived as she would rather be dead than alive. This is made even more apparent when she describes how she “counts the hours” until she dies and returns to God (84). Helen’s religion is seen as detrimental; it appears as though it is almost ruining her potential as she is continually unable to stand up for herself or enjoy the life she has. Helen’s religious views turn her into an unfeeling person who does not enjoy life the way that people are meant