Jane Eyre Summary

Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë is a novel of personal growth and social criticism. It follows the life of Jane Eyre, an orphaned girl who overcomes a harsh upbringing at the hands of her cruel aunt and the oppressive conditions at Lowood School. Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she meets and falls in love with the mysterious and brooding Mr. Rochester. Their relationship faces a dramatic turning point when Jane discovers that Rochester has a wife, Bertha Mason, who is mentally ill and kept hidden in the attic. Devastated, Jane flees and finds refuge with the Rivers family, discovering she has inherited a fortune from a relative. Jane ultimately returns to Thornfield, finding it in ruins after a fire set by Bertha, who perished in the flames. Rochester, now blind and maimed, is humbled and repentant. Jane's return signifies her maturity and independence, and the novel concludes with their marriage based on mutual respect and equality. "Jane Eyre" addresses themes of love, morality, and the struggle for self-respect.