JANE EYRE

How many young girls have read Jane Eyre, been fascinated by the brooding & angry Mr. Rochester, trembled at the murderous actions of the mysterious Grace Poole, and pine with Jane as she watches Mr. Rochester court another woman and then is still forced to reject his proposal of a bigamous marriage.



I love the fact that although the novel was released in 1847, was written by a woman, and presents a strong female character who stands up and acts directly against society, church and culture biases.




And it has been made into about eleven movies  - with most of the Mr. Rochesters being too gorgeous to contemplate (Orson Welles, Timothy Dalton, William Hurt, Michael Fassbender) - some too showy Janes (Jane Fontaine, Mia Wasikowska), but some very realistic ones (Charlotte Gainsbourg, Samatha Morton).




So why do we girls relate to so strongly to the character of Jane?


Is it the lowly position of an orphan, fighting against her abusive family?


Could it be suffering through a cruel schooling system, dominated by a sadistic male authoritative figure?


Or serving as a common governess in an elegant household, insulted by guests of higher social standing?


When Jane flees Thornfield and wanders the moors homeless and helpless - as she serves humbly again for room and board - when she is fighting against her emotions and ties back with Mr. Rochester.... what is it about this story?



I'd like to think that we all identify more with Jane's courage and resolution to live by her own personal standards - not necessarily society's dictates - and in particular hold to her principles in the face of starvation, societal scorn and solitude.


So - why do you like it?