Jane Eyre Belonging

Charlotte Bronte's gothic novel, Jane Eyre follows a young woman's life and problems. The story begins when Jane is ten. Jane, an orphan who had a rather rough upbringing and is only trying to find ger place in the world. Even at this young age, her yearning for a sense of belonging, identity and the need for equality, is very prevalent and proceeds to be as her life carries on. Jane is a unique character for her time; a stubborn, opinionated and strong willed woman. Most of those attributes were seen as manly and unfit for a proper lady to have those dominant qualities. She demands respect from people in her life and is attracted to those who respond to her needs of equality. This is why Mr. Rochester and Jane’s bond is so strong, their relationship

This is why from beginning to end, she has a hunger to be accepted and belong. Consequently, when Jane moves from place to place she dosen’t know anyone, which makes her feel alone and unwanted. Luckily, in Thornfield, Ms. Fairfax offers her warm support, right off the bat, that Jane is unused to and cherishes. Soon enough Thornfield is her home, the most accepting and welcoming home she has had yet. Though a household with mysteries and unsavoury details that she has not inquired yet. These secrets make Jane curious, but also, feel like an outsider: “I reflected, and in truth it appeared to me the only possible one: satisfied I was not, but to please him I endeavored to appear so—relieved, I certainly did feel; so I answered him with a contented smile.” (342) In context, Rochester told Jane to wait until they were married “a year and one day” before he told her about Bertha. The uncontentment of Jane being told that in fact Rochester will not tell her a secret about the events in her own home is ghastly. She holds his trust near and dear to her heart, this distrust pushes Jane away and trust is the foundation of relationships so, it was foreshadowing the events soon to occur. In being the persuit of St. John, away from Rochester, she doesn't belong. The main reason why she stayed for so long was, that she had similar interests that St. John could provide, such as: teaching and religion. In addition, St. John reminded her of Rochester; the inquisitive ductivity and boldness that he posses particularly. Once back with Rochester, she finds her place and relizes that this is where she belongs, then marriage arrives after: “all my heart is yours, sir: it belongs to you; and with you it would remain, were fate to exile the rest of me from your presence forever.” (530) Jane finally