Children, and young people, in general, are often seen as inferior because they have not had as much experience as those of an older age. That being said, it is common knowledge that as our age increases, we learn more and grow to be stronger individuals. This maturation is not necessarily all due to age and knowledge, though, but also is influenced by the person themselves, and what they allow. In the beloved novel Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë, human development is highlighted as the reader travels with Jane through her struggles and growth. Jane’s maturation throughout the novel is evident as she migrates to different environments throughout her life, from Gateshead to Lowood, to Thornfield, due to her constant struggle against the cage she is trapped in by outside sources, and herself.
Jane’s childhood was a major factor in how she would grow as she aged, as are the early years of each person. Living with her aunt, Mrs. Reed, and her three cousins, who showed her little to no affection during her ten years with them but showed to be very intellectually capable and passionate as seen when she says to her cousin John Reed “‘You are like a murderer--you are like a slave-driver--you are like the Roman emperors!’” (6). Since John was the only male in Gateshead at the time, he naturally had a lot of power over Jane, historically speaking.
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Given the chance, many people would argue that their freedom is the most important aspect of their lives; this idea of independence is emphasized as children grow into adults. Jane begins to crave this liberty at a very young age and does not stop until she is able to take hold of it with a firm grip. Though she will continue to grow until she is on her deathbed, she is on her way to sewing for herself a flag of personal