Jane Eyre’s Archetypal Journey towards Independence
In Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre, Jane’s archetypal journey toward independence is demonstrated through her call to adventure at Gateshead, her helpers at Lowood, her obstacles at Thornfield, her nadir at Moor house, and her return at Ferndean. At Gateshead Jane underwent constant bullying by her Aunt Mrs. Reed and her cousins John, Eliza, and Georgiana. John pushed Jane too far and she blew up at him, which resulted into Jane being sent to the red room. Lowood is a charity school Mrs. Reed sent Jane too where she met Miss. Temple and Helen Burns through the obstacles Jane started becoming more mature and learning to control her passions. Thornfield offered Jane love and a great sense of self worth. Obstacles at Thornfield led Jane to Whitecross and Moor house which was Jane’s lowest point and her hardest struggles. The return to Ferndean, Jane obtained her complete independence and the end of her journey.
Jane starts her call to adventure at Gateshead, the name Gateshead is symbolic because it is referring to the opening of a gate, which relates to Jane’s call to adventure and the opening of a new experience. Jane endured difficult circumstances at Gateshead; she is an orphan and treated unfairly by her Aunt Mrs. Reed, and three cousins John, Eliza and Georgiana. John pushed Jane’s buttons too far and Jane’s immaturity got the best of her erupting in a fight, who Mrs. Reed held Jane accountable for. Two servants Miss Abbott and Bessie escort Jane into the red room, where Jane’s Uncle, Mr. Reed had passed away, Jane believes his ghost is lingering in the room, terrified she faints. The red room helped Jane to understand a little bit more of her past and symbolizes Jane’s feeling of isolation. When she awakes she is accompanied by Mr. Lloyd the family’s apothecary, who suggests to Mrs. Reed Jane should be sent to the charity school, where she might find some happiness. Mrs. Reed met with Mr. Brocklehurst and...