Jane Eyre: Assault on Victorian Morality

In the realm of literature, few works have dared to challenge societal norms as fervently as Charlotte Bronte's "Jane Eyre." Published in the midst of the Victorian era, a period characterized by rigid social expectations and moral constraints, the novel emerges not only as a poignant narrative but also as a direct assault on the prevailing morality of the time. This essay seeks to unravel the layers of controversy embedded in "Jane Eyre," exploring its realistic portrayal of life, critique of class structures, advocacy for feminist ideals, religious undertones, and the unconventional resolutions that collectively forged a path toward societal transformation.

Challenging Victorian Morality

At the core of the controversy surrounding "Jane Eyre" lies Bronte's audacious assault on Victorian morality. The novel thrusts readers into a tumultuous world where societal expectations clash with the unapologetic realism of Bronte's portrayal. The central figure, Jane, becomes a conduit for challenging the prescribed roles for women during the 19th century.

Bronte's daring exploration goes beyond the mere depiction of a woman's struggle; it delves into thoughts and emotions deemed improper for a lady of that era.

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In Jane's character, Bronte presents a defiance against the traditional roles dictated for women. Passion, rage, and retaliation, emotions considered taboo for respectable women, find expression in the protagonist, becoming a source of both admiration and outrage.

The societal backlash faced by Bronte upon the novel's publication stems from its stark departure from the accepted narrative norms. Jane's complex character challenges the dichotomy of good and evil, presenting a woman who defies categorization.

In a society that considered "an ugly woman a blot on the face of creation," Bronte introduced a character who transcended physical appearance, sparking debates about the conventional standards of beauty imposed on women.

Critique of Victorian Class Structure

Bronte's assault on Victorian morality extends beyond individual character depictions to a broader critique of the class structure prevalent during that era. The novel's central romance between a lowly governess and a wealthy nobleman shatters societal norms in a strictly hierarchical society. The criticism is not merely directed at the individuals but serves as a commentary on the aristocracy itself, which Bronte deems "showy but not genuine."

The relationship between Jane and Rochester becomes a symbol of resistance against established hierarchies. In a society where such unions were considered unthinkable, Bronte challenges the very fabric of Victorian class structures. The controversy arises not only from the unconventional romance but also from Bronte's direct assault on the aristocracy, questioning their authenticity and revealing the hypocrisy inherent in their societal position.

Feminist Ideals

"Jane Eyre" emerges as a pioneering work in championing feminist ideals within the constraints of the Victorian era. Bronte's portrayal of Jane positions her as a strong, independent heroine challenging societal expectations. The novel, by making Jane an educated woman, defies the norm that denied women access to education during that time.

Jane's refusal to become a possession of Rochester and her rejection of symbols of female enslavement become pivotal moments that redefine the role of women in society. Bronte crafts Jane as a character who demands a say in her own destiny, contrasting sharply with the submissive roles assigned to women during the Victorian era. The rejection of societal expectations marks the beginning of a feminist adaptation that would later influence the cultural landscape of Victorian England.

Even during her courtship with Rochester, Jane refuses to succumb to societal pressures. Her rejection of Rochester's attempt to "clasp bracelets on her wrists" and "fasten a diamond chain around her neck" becomes symbolic of female empowerment within a male-dominated world. Bronte portrays Jane not as a passive figure but as one with willpower and integrity, determined to preserve her individuality in the face of societal expectations.

Religious Controversy

Embedded within the narrative of "Jane Eyre" is a subtle yet profound "anti-Christian" sentiment, challenging the religious norms of the Victorian society firmly entrenched in the Catholic faith. Jane's struggle with traditional constraints imposed by her religion becomes a focal point of the novel's controversy. Her rejection of the Catholic doctrine of self-sacrifice, evident in the line "Love your enemies; bless them that curse you," aligns her with a perspective that defies the accepted religious doctrines.

Jane's inability to comprehend her friend Helen's acceptance of martyrdom places her at odds with the religious teachings of the time. Instead of passively accepting her fate, Jane adopts a belief in resistance against unjust punishment, a doctrine considered heathenish by the standards of Christian and civilized nations. Her refusal to lead a stifling existence under St. John marks another instance where Jane's beliefs defy the religious norms that demand unquestioning faith and devotion.

The novel unfolds as a narrative of spiritual struggle, where Jane's beliefs clash with the prescribed religious norms, marking her as a heretic within the societal context of the time. Even her questioning of the existence of an afterlife challenges the Victorian faith that promised rewards in Heaven for enduring earthly suffering.

Jane's Return to Rochester

Amidst the religious and societal controversies, Jane's decision to return to Rochester stands as a pinnacle of defiance against both societal expectations and religious doctrines. The Church's doctrine of accepting life's predetermined fate clashes with Jane's pursuit of earthly happiness, challenging the prevailing Victorian religious ideology.

Jane's refusal to be satisfied with her present circumstances signifies a willful departure from societal norms. Her return to Rochester becomes a statement, not only about love and forgiveness but also about asserting agency in shaping one's destiny. This unconventional resolution serves as a testament to Bronte's intent to challenge not only the societal expectations of women but also the religious doctrines that dictated their roles and choices.

Beyond the key structural elements, Bronte's innovative use of realistic characters adds another layer to the controversy surrounding "Jane Eyre." The novel challenges literary expectations not only through its portrayal of an empowered female protagonist but also by introducing characters with depth and complexity rarely seen in the literature of the time.

Furthermore, Bronte explores the mind/body connection, with Jane rejecting a stifling existence under St. John. Her belief that "denying the body kills the soul" articulates a perspective on life that, although labeled as "animalistic" by her religion, reveals a profound understanding of the importance of balance between physical and mental well-being.

Additionally, the novel challenges the prevailing notion of women being emotionally unstable. Jane, as the central character, gains resolution with her passion and successfully creates a balance in her emotions. Bronte's portrayal of Jane dispels the stereotype of women as emotionally fragile, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of female characters in literature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte emerges as a revolutionary work that assaulted Victorian morality on multiple fronts. Through its realistic portrayal, critique of class structures, exploration of feminist ideals, religious controversy, and unconventional resolutions, the novel challenged the societal norms of its time. Bronte's creation, Jane, stands as a symbol of defiance against the restrictive roles imposed on women, ultimately contributing to the transformation of Victorian culture and paving the way for a new role for women in society.