Literary Works That Shape Our World: A Critical Analysis - Sykalo Evgen 2023

Analysis of “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë

Biographical and historical context

Research on the life of Charlotte Brontë and the historical context in which she wrote Jane Eyre can provide valuable insights into the novel's themes, characters, and plot.

Biographical context:

Charlotte Brontë was born in Yorkshire, England in 1816. She was the third of six children, and her mother died when she was five years old. Brontë and her sisters were raised by their father, a clergyman, and their aunt.

Brontë had a difficult childhood. She was bullied by her older brother and aunt, and she was sent to a boarding school for girls with her two older sisters. The school was harsh and unhealthy, and two of Brontë's sisters died of tuberculosis while they were there.

Brontë left school in 1832 and worked as a teacher for several years. She then became a governess in the home of a wealthy family. Brontë was unhappy as a governess, but she used her experiences to inspire the character of Jane Eyre.

In 1846, Brontë published her first novel, Jane Eyre, under the pseudonym Currer Bell. The novel was a critical and commercial success, and it established Brontë as one of the leading writers of her time.

Brontë went on to publish three more novels, Shirley (1849), Villette (1853), and The Professor (1857). She also wrote poetry and short stories.

Brontë died of tuberculosis in 1855 at the age of 38.

Historical context:

Jane Eyre was written and published during the Victorian era in England. This was a time of great social and economic change. The Industrial Revolution was transforming the country, and the middle class was growing in size and power.

However, the Victorian era was also a time of great inequality. The working class was still very poor, and women had few rights. Women were expected to marry and raise children, and they had little opportunity to pursue education or careers.

Jane Eyre is a novel that reflects the social and economic realities of the Victorian era. It is also a novel that challenges the traditional roles of women in society. Jane Eyre is an independent and strong-willed woman who refuses to be defined by her social class or gender.

By understanding the biographical and historical context of Jane Eyre, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the novel's themes, characters, and plot.

Here are some specific examples of how the biographical and historical context of Jane Eyre can help readers to understand the novel better:

Brontë's own experiences of poverty and inequality as a woman in Victorian England likely influenced her portrayal of Jane Eyre's struggles.
The Victorian era was a time of great religious fervor, and this is reflected in Jane Eyre's exploration of themes such as faith and doubt.
The Industrial Revolution was transforming the English landscape, and this is reflected in the novel's setting at Thornfield Hall, a gloomy and decaying manor house.

Research on the biographical and historical context of Jane Eyre can provide valuable insights into the novel's complex and nuanced meaning.

Literary criticism

There is a vast amount of literary criticism on Jane Eyre, which can provide you with different perspectives on the novel and its significance. Here are some of the most common critical approaches to Jane Eyre:

Feminist criticism: Feminist critics have focused on Jane Eyre's portrayal of female identity and gender roles in Victorian England. They have praised the novel for its strong and independent female protagonist, and for its challenge to traditional notions of femininity.
Marxist criticism: Marxist critics have examined the novel's representation of class and social inequality in Victorian England. They have argued that Jane Eyre is a critique of capitalism and the exploitation of the working class.
Postcolonial criticism: Postcolonial critics have analyzed the novel's relationship to British colonialism and the construction of race. They have argued that Jane Eyre can be read as a critique of British imperialism and its impact on colonized peoples.
Psychoanalytic criticism: Psychoanalytic critics have explored the novel's psychological themes, such as the development of identity, the role of the subconscious, and the nature of desire. They have argued that Jane Eyre can be read as a case study in human psychology.
Biographical criticism: Biographical critics have examined the relationship between the novel and Brontë's own life and experiences. They have argued that Jane Eyre is a semi-autobiographical novel that reflects Brontë's own struggles with gender, class, and religion.

In addition to these general critical approaches, there are also many specific studies of Jane Eyre that focus on particular aspects of the novel, such as its narrative structure, its use of symbolism, or its representation of specific characters or themes.

Researching the different critical approaches to Jane Eyre can provide you with a deeper understanding of the novel's complex and multifaceted meaning. It can also help you to develop your own critical perspective on the novel.

Here are some specific examples of how literary criticism can help readers to understand Jane Eyre better:

Feminist critics have helped readers to see how Jane Eyre challenges the traditional roles of women in Victorian England. For example, Jane is an intelligent and ambitious woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself. She also refuses to marry Mr. Rochester until he is free to do so.
Marxist critics have helped readers to see how Jane Eyre is a critique of capitalism and the exploitation of the working class. For example, the novel shows how the working class is exploited at Lowood School and at Thornfield Hall.
Postcolonial critics have helped readers to see how Jane Eyre can be read as a critique of British imperialism. For example, the novel's depiction of the character of Bertha Mason can be seen as a representation of the colonized subject.
Psychoanalytic critics have helped readers to see how Jane Eyre can be read as a case study in human psychology. For example, the novel explores Jane's struggles with identity, her relationship with her subconscious, and her experience of desire.

Research on the literary criticism of Jane Eyre can provide valuable insights into the novel's complex and nuanced meaning. It can also help readers to develop their own critical perspective on the novel.

Intertextuality

Jane Eyre is a complex and sophisticated novel that draws on a wide range of literary and cultural sources. Some of the most common intertextual references in the novel include:

The Bible: Brontë makes many allusions to the Bible in Jane Eyre. For example, Jane's name is a reference to the biblical character of Jane Eyre, who is known for her piety and humility.
Classical literature: Brontë also alludes to classical literature in Jane Eyre. For example, she references the works of Homer, Virgil, and Ovid.
Shakespeare: Brontë makes several references to Shakespeare's plays in Jane Eyre. For example, she compares Jane to Ophelia from Hamlet.
Gothic literature: Jane Eyre is heavily influenced by the Gothic genre. Gothic elements in the novel include the gloomy setting of Thornfield Hall, the mysterious character of Bertha Mason, and the supernatural events that take place at the end of the novel.

In addition to these specific intertextual references, Jane Eyre also draws on a more general cultural context. The novel reflects the Victorian era's interest in themes such as religion, class, and gender. It also reflects the Gothic genre's fascination with the supernatural and the macabre.

Researching the intertextual references in Jane Eyre can help readers to understand the novel's complex meaning and its relationship to other works of literature and culture.

Here are some specific examples of how intertextuality can help readers to understand Jane Eyre better:

The biblical allusions in the novel can help readers to see how Jane Eyre grapples with themes such as faith, doubt, and redemption.
The classical allusions in the novel can help readers to see how Jane Eyre is connected to a long literary tradition.
The Shakespearean allusions in the novel can help readers to see how Jane Eyre explores themes such as love, loss, and madness.
The Gothic elements in the novel can help readers to see how Jane Eyre is a product of its time and culture.

Research on the intertextuality of Jane Eyre can provide valuable insights into the novel's complex and nuanced meaning. It can also help readers to make connections between Jane Eyre and other works of literature and culture.

Here are some additional thoughts on intertextuality in Jane Eyre:

Brontë's use of intertextuality is not always straightforward. She sometimes subverts or challenges the traditional meaning of the texts she alludes to. For example, her depiction of the character of Bertha Mason challenges the Victorian stereotype of the madwoman.
Brontë's use of intertextuality can also be seen as a way of asserting her own authority as a writer. By drawing on other works of literature, she positions herself as part of a long and distinguished literary tradition.

Brontë's use of intertextuality in Jane Eyre is complex and sophisticated. It can add richness and depth to the reader's understanding of the novel.

Adaptations

Jane Eyre has been adapted for film, television, and stage numerous times. Some of the most notable adaptations include:

Film:

✵ Jane Eyre (1943), starring Joan Fontaine and Orson Welles

✵ Jane Eyre (1983), starring Zelah Clarke and Timothy Dalton

✵ Jane Eyre (1996), starring Charlotte Gainsbourg and William Hurt

✵ Jane Eyre (2011), starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender

Television:

✵ Jane Eyre (1973), starring Sorcha Cusack and Michael Jayston

✵ Jane Eyre (1985), starring Zelah Clarke and Timothy Dalton

✵ Jane Eyre (1997), starring Samantha Morton and Ciarán Hinds

✵ Jane Eyre (2006), starring Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens

Stage:

✵ Jane Eyre (1936), play by Helen Jerome

✵ Jane Eyre (1991), play by David Edgar

✵ Jane Eyre (2008), musical by John Caird and Paul Gordon

Each adaptation of Jane Eyre brings its own unique perspective to the novel. Some adaptations are more faithful to the text than others, and some take more creative liberties. However, all of the adaptations offer valuable insights into the novel's themes, characters, and plot.

Researching the different adaptations of Jane Eyre can help readers to understand the novel in new and different ways. It can also help readers to appreciate the novel's timeless appeal.

Here are some specific examples of how research on the adaptations of Jane Eyre can help readers to understand the novel better:

Comparing the different adaptations of Jane Eyre can help readers to see how the novel's themes, characters, and plot have been interpreted differently over time.
Analyzing the creative choices made by different filmmakers and directors can help readers to understand the novel's potential for multiple interpretations.
Studying the audience reception of different adaptations can help readers to understand how the novel has been received by different generations of readers and viewers.

Research on the adaptations of Jane Eyre can provide valuable insights into the novel's complex and nuanced meaning. It can also help readers to appreciate the novel's enduring popularity and its relevance to contemporary audiences.

How does Jane Eyre challenge or conform to gender roles in Victorian England?

Jane Eyre is a complex and nuanced novel that both challenges and conforms to gender roles in Victorian England. On the one hand, Jane is a strong and independent woman who refuses to be defined by her social class or gender. She is also intelligent and ambitious, and she is not afraid to stand up for herself.

On the other hand, Jane does conform to some Victorian gender roles. For example, she is expected to be modest and feminine. She is also expected to marry and raise children. In the end, Jane does marry Mr. Rochester, but she does so on her own terms. She refuses to be his mistress, and she only marries him when he is free to do so.

Here are some specific examples of how Jane challenges and conforms to gender roles in Victorian England:

Challenges:

✵ Jane refuses to be cowed by headmistress Miss Temple at Lowood School.

✵ Jane stands up to Mr. Rochester when he tries to bully her.

✵ Jane refuses to be Mr. Rochester's mistress.

✵ Jane marries Mr. Rochester on her own terms.

Conforms:

✵ Jane is modest and feminine.

✵ Jane is expected to marry and raise children.

✵ Jane eventually does marry Mr. Rochester.

Jane Eyre is a complex and nuanced character who both challenges and conforms to gender roles in Victorian England. She is a strong and independent woman, but she also fulfills some traditional feminine roles. Her story offers a valuable critique of Victorian gender roles, but it also celebrates the importance of love and marriage.

In addition to the examples above, it is also worth noting that Jane Eyre is a novel that was written by a woman. This was a significant achievement in Victorian England, when women were largely excluded from the literary profession. Brontë's novel challenged the notion that women were not capable of writing serious or important literature.

Jane Eyre is a timeless novel that continues to inspire readers today. It is a story about a strong and independent woman who challenges the status quo and finds true love on her own terms.

How does the novel explore the themes of class, social inequality, and religious faith?

"Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë is a classic novel that delves into several themes, including class, social inequality, and religious faith. Here's how the novel explores these themes:

Class and Social Inequality:

Orphaned Jane's Position: The novel begins with Jane Eyre as an orphaned, impoverished child living with her cruel aunt and cousins. Her low social status is evident from the way she is mistreated and marginalized within her own family.

Lowood School: Jane's experiences at Lowood School highlight the harsh conditions faced by orphaned and lower-class children in Victorian society. The institution is a place of discipline and deprivation, where social inequality is palpable.

Rochester and Thornfield Hall: When Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, she enters a higher social class, but she is still reminded of her lower status. The contrast between her position and the luxurious lifestyle of her employer, Mr. Rochester, reflects the disparities in class and wealth.

Bertha Mason: Bertha Mason, Mr. Rochester's first wife, is another example of social inequality. She is a Creole woman from Jamaica, and her presence in England is marked by isolation and confinement. Her treatment is a reflection of the racism and colonial attitudes of the time.

Religious Faith:

Lowood's Religious Influence: Lowood School is a place where religion plays a significant role in the lives of the students. The strict and often oppressive religious environment impacts Jane's understanding of faith and morality.

Jane's Personal Faith: Throughout the novel, Jane grapples with her own faith and morality. Her religious beliefs are shaped by her experiences, and she seeks a faith that aligns with her own sense of justice and compassion.

St. John Rivers: The character of St. John Rivers, a clergyman, represents a more dogmatic and rigid form of religious faith. His proposal to Jane for a loveless marriage based on duty and missionary work illustrates the clash between religious duty and personal fulfillment.

Morality and Ethics:

Jane's Integrity: Jane Eyre's unwavering moral and ethical stance is central to the novel. She refuses to compromise her principles, even when faced with difficult choices related to love, social status, and religious duty.

Mr. Rochester's Redemption: Mr. Rochester's character arc also explores the theme of morality and redemption. His actions and consequences serve as a commentary on the consequences of unethical behavior.

In "Jane Eyre," Charlotte Brontë uses the protagonist's journey to navigate the complex social hierarchies and moral dilemmas of Victorian England. The novel highlights the struggles of a young woman from a lower social class while examining the role of religion and personal morality in shaping one's destiny. Through Jane's experiences and choices, Brontë critiques the injustices of class and social inequality while promoting the idea that true moral strength and faith are independent of one's social standing.

How does the novel explore the themes of class, social inequality, and religious faith?

Jane Eyre explores the themes of class, social inequality, and religious faith in a complex and nuanced way.

Class

Jane Eyre is a classic example of a Victorian rags-to-riches story. Jane is born into poverty and social inequality, but she rises through society through her intelligence, determination, and moral compass.

The novel shows how class and social inequality can shape people's lives. For example, Jane is mistreated at Lowood School and at Gateshead Hall because of her low social status. She is also denied opportunities because of her class.

However, the novel also shows that it is possible to overcome class barriers. Jane is able to achieve her dreams and find happiness despite her humble beginnings.

Social inequality

Jane Eyre is a powerful critique of social inequality in Victorian England. The novel shows how the rich and the poor lived in very different worlds. The rich enjoyed wealth and privilege, while the poor struggled to survive.

The novel also shows how social inequality can lead to injustice and oppression. For example, Jane is mistreated at Lowood School because she is an orphan. She is also denied opportunities because of her social class.

However, the novel also shows that there are people who are willing to fight for social justice. For example, Mr. St. John Rivers is a clergyman who is committed to helping the poor and the oppressed.

Religious faith

Jane Eyre is a religious novel, but it does not offer a simple or straightforward view of faith. The novel explores the different ways in which people experience faith, and it also challenges some traditional religious beliefs.

For example, Jane is a devout Christian, but she also questions some of the teachings of the church. She struggles to understand how a loving God could allow so much suffering in the world.

The novel also shows how religious faith can be used to justify oppression and injustice. For example, Mr. Brocklehurst, the headmaster of Lowood School, uses his religious beliefs to justify his harsh treatment of the students.

However, the novel also shows how religious faith can be a source of strength and comfort. For example, Jane's faith helps her to endure the hardships of her life. It also helps her to find forgiveness and redemption.

Jane Eyre is a complex and nuanced novel that explores the themes of class, social inequality, and religious faith in a thoughtful and provocative way. The novel offers valuable insights into the Victorian era, but it also remains relevant to contemporary audiences.

What is the significance of the Gothic elements in the novel?

The Gothic elements in Jane Eyre are significant in a number of ways. First, they create a sense of suspense and mystery. The novel is full of dark and atmospheric descriptions, such as the gloomy setting of Thornfield Hall and the mysterious character of Bertha Mason. These elements keep the reader engaged and eager to find out what will happen next.

Second, the Gothic elements in Jane Eyre are used to explore the dark side of human nature. The novel deals with themes such as madness, obsession, and revenge. The Gothic elements help to create a sense of unease and foreboding, which reflects the darkness that lurks within all of us.

Third, the Gothic elements in Jane Eyre are used to challenge the Victorian ideal of femininity. Jane is a strong and independent woman, but she is also vulnerable and passionate. The Gothic elements help to show that femininity is not simply about being modest and submissive. It can also be about being wild, untamed, and dangerous.

Here are some specific examples of the Gothic elements in Jane Eyre:

The gloomy setting of Thornfield Hall
The mysterious character of Bertha Mason
The supernatural events that take place at the end of the novel
The themes of madness, obsession, and revenge
Jane's own wild and untamed nature

The Gothic elements in Jane Eyre play a significant role in the novel. They create a sense of suspense and mystery, explore the dark side of human nature, and challenge the Victorian ideal of femininity.

In addition to the above, it is also worth noting that the Gothic genre was very popular in Victorian England. Brontë's use of Gothic elements in Jane Eyre would have appealed to her audience, while also allowing her to explore some of the darker aspects of Victorian society.

Jane Eyre is a complex and sophisticated novel that draws on a wide range of literary and cultural sources. The Gothic elements in the novel are just one of the many ways in which Brontë creates a rich and compelling story.

How does Brontë use symbolism and imagery in Jane Eyre?

Brontë uses symbolism and imagery in Jane Eyre to create a rich and evocative world, to explore the novel's themes, and to develop its characters.

Some of the most important symbols and images in the novel include:

The red room: The red room is a symbol of Jane's childhood trauma and her inner turmoil. It is also a symbol of the patriarchal oppression that Jane faces throughout her life.
Thornfield Hall: Thornfield Hall is a symbol of both mystery and danger. It is also a symbol of the passionate love that Jane and Mr. Rochester share.
Fire: Fire is a symbol of passion, desire, and destruction. It is also a symbol of transformation and renewal.
Nature: Nature is a symbol of both beauty and cruelty. It is also a symbol of the human soul.
Religion: Religion is a complex symbol in the novel. It can be a source of comfort and strength, but it can also be used to justify oppression and injustice.

Brontë uses these symbols and images in a variety of ways. For example, she uses the red room to symbolize Jane's inner turmoil. She uses Thornfield Hall to symbolize the passionate love that Jane and Mr. Rochester share. She uses fire to symbolize both the passion and the destruction that can come with love. She uses nature to symbolize both the beauty and the cruelty of the world. And she uses religion to explore the complex relationship between faith and morality.

Brontë's use of symbolism and imagery is one of the things that makes Jane Eyre such a rich and complex novel. Her symbols and images add depth and meaning to the story, and they help to create a world that is both believable and magical.

Here are some specific examples of how Brontë uses symbolism and imagery in Jane Eyre:

The red room is where Jane is locked up as a child by her cruel aunt, Mrs. Reed. The room's red color symbolizes Jane's rage and the violence that is done to her.
Thornfield Hall is a mysterious and decaying mansion that is home to Mr. Rochester and his mad wife, Bertha Mason. The hall's decaying state symbolizes the dark secrets that Mr. Rochester is hiding from Jane.
Fire is used throughout the novel to symbolize both the passion and the destruction that can come with love. For example, Jane's first meeting with Mr. Rochester takes place in a room that is on fire. This foreshadows the passionate but destructive relationship that they will have.
Nature is used throughout the novel to symbolize both the beauty and the cruelty of the world. For example, the wild and untamed landscape of the moors symbolizes Jane's own wild and untamed nature.
Religion is used throughout the novel to explore the complex relationship between faith and morality. For example, Jane's faith helps her to endure the hardships of her life, but it also leads her to make difficult choices.

How does the novel's narrative structure contribute to its meaning?

The narrative structure of "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë plays a significant role in conveying the novel's meaning and themes. Brontë employs a first-person, autobiographical narrative style, with Jane Eyre herself as the narrator. This choice of narrative structure contributes to the novel's depth and impact in several ways:

Reader Empathy and Engagement:
- By telling the story from Jane's perspective, the reader gains direct access to her thoughts, emotions, and inner turmoil. This narrative intimacy allows readers to empathize with Jane's experiences and connect with her on a personal level, making her journey all the more relatable and engaging.

Exploration of Identity and Self-Growth:
- The first-person narrative allows the reader to witness Jane's personal growth and development throughout the novel. We are privy to her internal struggles, doubts, and moments of self-discovery. This focus on Jane's evolving identity is central to the novel's meaning, as it highlights her quest for autonomy and self-worth in a society that often marginalizes her.

Subjectivity and Perspective:
- Jane's narrative is inherently subjective, and her interpretation of events is filtered through her own beliefs, values, and emotions. This subjectivity adds depth to the story and allows readers to understand the world as she perceives it. It also underscores the novel's exploration of the limitations and biases of individual perspectives.

Feminist Themes:
- The first-person narrative is particularly important in the context of the novel's feminist themes. Through Jane's voice, Brontë addresses issues of gender inequality and the limitations placed on women in the 19th century. Jane's determination to assert herself and find her own path in life is a central feminist theme, and her narration allows readers to directly witness her struggles against societal expectations.

Mystery and Suspense:
- The first-person narrative adds an element of mystery and suspense to the story, especially during Jane's time at Thornfield Hall. Readers, like Jane, are in the dark about the secrets and mysteries surrounding Mr. Rochester and the mansion. This narrative tension heightens the intrigue and keeps readers engaged.

Reader Interpretation:
- Brontë's use of Jane as the narrator also allows readers to interpret and analyze the events and characters in the novel independently. Readers can form their own opinions about the characters and their actions based on the information presented by Jane.

The first-person narrative structure of "Jane Eyre" is integral to the novel's meaning and impact. It enables readers to connect deeply with the protagonist, explore themes of identity and feminism, and experience the story's emotional and moral complexities through Jane's perspective. It also reinforces the novel's exploration of individual subjectivity and the ways in which personal narratives shape our understanding of the world.

How does Jane Eyre's character develop and change over the course of the novel?

Jane Eyre's character develops and changes over the course of the novel in a number of ways. She becomes more confident, independent, and self-assured. She also learns to trust her own judgment and to stand up for what she believes in.

At the beginning of the novel, Jane is a shy and timid orphan. She has been mistreated by her aunt and cousins at Gateshead Hall, and she has been sent to the harsh boarding school at Lowood. However, Jane's experiences at Lowood help her to develop her strength and resilience. She also learns the importance of education and self-improvement.

After leaving Lowood, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall. Here, she falls in love with her employer, Mr. Rochester. However, Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester is complicated by the fact that he is already married. When Jane learns the truth about Mr. Rochester's wife, she leaves Thornfield Hall.

Jane then spends several years working as a teacher at Marsh End. During this time, she reflects on her experiences and learns to grow and change. She also develops her religious faith.

Eventually, Jane returns to Thornfield Hall. Mr. Rochester's wife has died, and he is free to marry Jane. However, Jane refuses to marry Mr. Rochester unless they are on equal terms. She demands that he give her half of his fortune and that she be allowed to manage her own affairs.

In the end, Jane and Mr. Rochester are married. However, their marriage is based on equality and respect. Jane is no longer a timid orphan; she is a confident and independent woman.

Here are some specific examples of how Jane's character develops and changes over the course of the novel:

At the beginning of the novel, Jane is afraid to stand up to her aunt and cousins. However, by the end of the novel, she is willing to challenge Mr. Rochester himself.
At the beginning of the novel, Jane is insecure about her appearance. However, by the end of the novel, she has learned to accept and love herself for who she is.
At the beginning of the novel, Jane is dependent on others for her livelihood. However, by the end of the novel, she is financially independent and able to support herself.

Jane Eyre's character development is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novel. Jane is a complex and believable character who grows and changes over the course of the story. Her journey from timid orphan to confident woman is an inspiration to readers of all ages.

How do the different adaptations of Jane Eyre reflect the changing social and cultural values of the time?

The different adaptations of Jane Eyre reflect the changing social and cultural values of the time in a number of ways. For example, the earlier adaptations of the novel tend to focus on Jane's love story with Mr. Rochester, while the later adaptations tend to focus on Jane's independence and self-determination.

Another way in which the adaptations reflect the changing social and cultural values of the time is in their treatment of the character of Bertha Mason. In the earlier adaptations, Bertha is often portrayed as a monstrous and threatening figure. However, in the later adaptations, Bertha is often portrayed as a sympathetic and tragic figure.

Here are some specific examples of how the different adaptations of Jane Eyre reflect the changing social and cultural values of the time:

In the 1943 adaptation of Jane Eyre, starring Joan Fontaine and Orson Welles, the focus is on Jane's love story with Mr. Rochester. The film also portrays Bertha Mason as a monstrous and threatening figure.
In the 1983 adaptation of Jane Eyre, starring Zelah Clarke and Timothy Dalton, there is a greater focus on Jane's independence and self-determination. The film also portrays Bertha Mason in a more sympathetic light.
In the 1996 adaptation of Jane Eyre, starring Charlotte Gainsbourg and William Hurt, the focus is on Jane's journey to self-discovery. The film also portrays Bertha Mason as a tragic figure.
In the 2011 adaptation of Jane Eyre, starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender, there is a greater focus on Jane's inner turmoil and her struggles with social convention. The film also portrays Bertha Mason as a complex and sympathetic character.

The different adaptations of Jane Eyre reflect the changing social and cultural values of the time in a number of ways. The earlier adaptations tend to focus on Jane's love story with Mr. Rochester and portray Bertha Mason as a monstrous and threatening figure. The later adaptations tend to focus on Jane's independence and self-determination and portray Bertha Mason in a more sympathetic light.

It is worth noting that Jane Eyre is a complex and multi-layered novel that can be interpreted in many different ways. There is no one definitive way to adapt the novel for the screen. Each adaptation reflects the unique vision of the director and the social and cultural values of the time in which it was made.