Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre is the story of an orphan girl, a supposedly feminist character, trying to find love, independence, and self identity. Throughout her childhood, Jane endures struggles, humiliation, and loneliness through sheer will power and strength. As an adult, she faces moral dilemmas, and continues to make difficult choices.

Whether Jane is a feminist heroine or not is debatable. The independent spirit, indomitable character, and courage to speak her mind, coupled with her strong moral compass that helps her make “morally upright” decisions without being influenced by societal circumstances or expectations would make her an arguably strong classic feminist icon in the 19th century. However, her lack of ambition, happiness in confining to gender roles, lack of anger against the injustices of the male protagonist, and ultimate decisions - which inevitably lead her to live a very conventional life would go against the very principles of what modern feminists view as women empowerment.

I, for one, think Jane is a feminist heroine for her times. Afterall, what is feminism but the freedom and the ability to make your own choices in life? Throughout the book, Jane chooses what she wants without being influenced by the people, particularly the males around her. Whether we accept her choices as feminist or not can be debatable, but the mere fact that she makes those choices is what makes her a true feminist.

In terms of morality, the book poses interesting questions. The most important question is the morality of choosing what you love and desire versus what is actually right or wrong as per your principles. This moral dilemma often presents itself in every individual's life at some point or the other, and the way you deal with it decides your morality. Another important question is the role of society in determining your morals. How does social class and societal expectations determine what is moral or immoral for you? Lastly, does an act which was initially immoral become moral due to mere change in circumstances? I think the book beautifully explores these questions.

Ultimately, I think Jane Eyre is a beautifully written book with moral dilemmas, a complex array of questionable characters, an unpredictable storyline, gothic elements, and Jane's indomitable and free spirit. The only turn off was that the book was excessively religious at places, and sometimes morally preachy. However, it doesn't take away from the otherwise enjoyable experience of reading it!