Jane Eyre 7

• "Ere I had finished this reply, my soul began to expand, to exult, with the strangest sense of freedom, of triumph, I ever felt. It seemed as if an invisible bond had burst, and that I had struggled out into unhoped-for liberty." (p. 36)
  

Charlotte Bronte creates a very unique representation of a independent female figure as Jane Eyre demands to be respected. Jane is a motivated, opinionated woman, who takes initiative while remaining loyal to her character. Unlike many of the other female characters in literary works we've read, Jane is outspoken, confident, and never hesitates to follow her intuition. During her younger years, she was punished for speaking with an open mind but as she encounters Mr. Rochester, he accepts her for being intellectual and independent. Mr. Rochester acknowledges these qualities, while Mr. St. John ignores all that she has to offer. Jane recognizes that Mr. St. John does not appreciate her autonomous behavior, eventually leading her to return back to Mr. Rochester - someone who values her character.

Photo Credit:
Photograph. HollywoodJesus.com. Web. 30 Nov. 2009. http://hollywoodjesus.com/media/beauty2.jpg.