How Does Jane Eyre Conform

In Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre, the Victorian ideal of behavior is challenged. During the 19th century, women were expected to be timid and obedient. Jane Eyre was not willing to conform to the status quo, however, and expressed values that she felt were important. Though this created conflict on many occasions, Jane did not give up on what she knew was right; maintaining a strong connection to her personal views. Through her rejection of Victorian ideals, Jane Eyre was ultimately able to live a more joyful and fulfilling life. Rather than conforming to the established principles at Gateshead, Jane displayed early on that she would not tolerate unfair treatment. John Reed was the first character in the book to abuse Jane, when he “struck” her, “suddenly and strongly” (Bronte 13). Jane’s frustration with John led her to accuse John of being a “murderer” and a “slave-driver” (Bronte 13). While Mrs. Reed and Bessie tried to restrain her in the red room, Jane constantly argued with Mrs. Reed, who did not take Jane’s attitude lightly; these are very non-victorian behaviors. Mrs. Reed had not seen Jane resist any punishment previously, so she was taken aback by the fierceness with which Jane fought against her commands. This did not go unnoticed by Mrs. Reed, and she realized that a consequence would be

Brocklehurst’s presence in Gateshead was enough of a punishment for Jane. The hypocritical, greedy man scolded Jane for being “a naughty child, addicted to falsehood and deceit” (Bronte 42). Jane said nothing back to the man, but her resentment for Mrs. Reed had grown. Soon after, Mrs. Reed confirmed Jane’s attendance at Lowood school. Though the school was a dreadful and sickly place, Jane felt content there and was no longer bothered by the Reed family. In this circumstance, Jane’s attitude of rebellion puts her in a better situation than she was in before, and that encouraged her to continue her life with the same outlook on the world around