Bertha Mason: The Enigmatic Figure in "Jane Eyre"

In Charlotte Brontë's classic novel "Jane Eyre," Bertha Mason is a character shrouded in mystery and intrigue. As the "madwoman in the attic," Bertha serves as a crucial element of the story, casting a dark shadow over Thornfield Hall and playing a pivotal role in the development of the plot. This essay explores the enigmatic figure of Bertha Mason, her significance in the novel, and the broader themes she represents.

Bertha Mason is introduced to readers as the wife of Edward Rochester, the brooding and complex master of Thornfield Hall.

She is initially portrayed as a looming presence, kept hidden away in the attic by Grace Poole, a servant tasked with attending to her needs. Jane Eyre, the novel's protagonist, first encounters Bertha when she hears eerie laughter and strange noises emanating from the upper floors of Thornfield. The revelation of Bertha's existence triggers a series of questions and uncertainties, which heightens the suspense and adds a Gothic element to the story.

Get quality help now

Prof. Finch

Verified writer

Proficient in: Free Essays

4.7 (346)

“ This writer never make an mistake for me always deliver long before due date. Am telling you man this writer is absolutely the best. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

One of the key functions of Bertha Mason in the novel is to serve as a symbol of the oppressive and patriarchal society of the time. Bertha's confinement and marginalization within the attic reflect the limited agency and power afforded to women in the Victorian era. As a woman of mixed race from Jamaica, Bertha's character embodies the intersection of gender, race, and class issues prevalent during that period. Her portrayal as a "madwoman" also highlights the Victorian society's inclination to label and silence women who did not conform to societal norms.

Throughout the novel, Brontë masterfully employs Bertha's presence to explore the theme of the "other" and the fear of the unknown. Bertha's foreign and exotic background, coupled with her erratic behavior, create an unsettling atmosphere that reflects the fear and anxiety surrounding the unfamiliar. She becomes the embodiment of Rochester's dark and hidden past, a reminder of his impulsive and immoral actions in his youth. Bertha's existence becomes a metaphor for the haunting consequences of one's past actions, illustrating the inescapable nature of personal history.

Furthermore, Bertha Mason's character serves as a foil to Jane Eyre, accentuating the stark contrast between the two women. Jane is portrayed as independent, principled, and morally upright, while Bertha is depicted as wild, uninhibited, and trapped in the throes of madness. Bertha's character functions as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the potential consequences of deviating from societal norms and expectations. Jane's encounter with Bertha in the novel's climax serves as a pivotal moment of self-discovery for Jane, allowing her to confront her own fears and uncertainties.

However, Bertha Mason's character is not without controversy. Some modern readers have criticized Brontë's portrayal of Bertha as perpetuating harmful stereotypes about mental illness and exoticism. The term "madwoman in the attic" has been used to signify the trivialization and dismissal of women suffering from mental health issues, reducing them to mere plot devices rather than fully realized characters. Additionally, Bertha's representation as an "other" has been critiqued for perpetuating racist tropes prevalent in Victorian literature.

Despite the criticism, Bertha's character continues to be a subject of fascination and analysis in literary discussions. Scholars have explored the psychological and symbolic dimensions of her character, delving into the motivations and complexities of her actions. Some interpretations have attempted to humanize Bertha, presenting her as a victim of circumstance rather than a one-dimensional antagonist.

In recent years, contemporary retellings and adaptations of "Jane Eyre" have sought to reframe Bertha Mason's character and perspective. These reinterpretations aim to give voice to the silenced and marginalized, offering a more nuanced and empathetic portrayal of Bertha's experiences. Such reimaginations highlight the importance of revisiting classic texts with a critical and inclusive lens, acknowledging the biases and limitations of the time in which they were written.

In conclusion, Bertha Mason is a haunting and multifaceted character in Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre." As the "madwoman in the attic," she symbolizes the oppressive and patriarchal society of the Victorian era, while also embodying themes of fear, the "other," and the consequences of one's past actions. Bertha's presence in the novel serves as a foil to Jane Eyre and prompts readers to reflect on the complexities of identity, gender, and race. While her portrayal has faced criticism for perpetuating harmful stereotypes, she remains a compelling and enigmatic figure that continues to captivate literary enthusiasts and spark discussions about representation and empathy in classic literature.