Jane Eyre Independence

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” This quote was said by the famous Charlotte Bronte. This very attitude reflects much throughout her book Jane Eyre, and shows that Bronte had ideals that could be found in todays society. She was far beyond her time, and longed to be an independent women. Jane Eyre was a character in Bronte’s book that had lots of similarities to her self. The difficult life Jane had and her willingness to go her own way was inspirational. The most pivotal moment in Jane’s life for her growth as a person was Jane’s decision to leave Thornfield. This can be shown through the moments leading up to it and the theme of independence.

Thornfield turned from a safe haven to a hazard to Jane by the end of her stay at Thornfield. To start off, Jane gradually started to
lose herself to the people she surrounded herself with. “you don’t love me, then? It was only my station, and the rank of my wife, that you valued?” Jane was not dependent on anyone, and then the relationship between Rochester and Jane turned into an unhealthy one. She did not like the idea of leaning on anyone, and then Rochester started asking too much of her. This is the first reason Jane decided to leave. The second reason that pushed her to this decision was when she said “I do love you, more than ever: but I must not show or indulge the feeling: and this is the last time I must express it.” The wants and needs of Rochester and Jane are completely different, and the expression of love can not always be reciprocated. Rochester fully expected Jane to stay with him for the rest of his life, but Jane did not feel that he understood her. She took her own path, and went on her own way. The third reason she left was because of his lack of understanding of the lifestyle she wanted. “... There you shall live a happy, and guarded, and most innocent life. Never fear that I wish to lure you into error- to make you my mistress.” Jane did not want to live a guarded life; it has always just been Jane. Rochester wanted to take care of Jane because that was what he felt she wanted. He did not ask if she wanted to be his mistress or be taken care of. These examples of the relationship between Jane and Rochester show how leaving Thornfield was the most pivotal moment in Jane’s life.

The theme of independence is shown throughout the entire book, but especially in this moment.
First of all, Jane did not depend on anyone throughout the entire book. She developed feelings for Rochester over the time period that they spent together, and these feelings ended up to be her ultimate weakness. When Jane decided to leave Thornfield, she choose her feelings over his and pursued the life that she desired. Also, this theme is present when Jane says, “Mr. Rochester, I must leave you.” She was in love with Rochester, but at the same time she was not happy with where the relationship was going. The reason she was able to walk away is because of the independent, self-reliant person she grew up to be. Lastly, this theme is prevalent when Jane said, “We were born to strive and endure- you as well as I: do so. You will forget me before I forget you.” Jane knew that she was independent. One of the aspects Jane used throughout the entire book was birds. Birds are free, independent, and self-reliant. All of these characteristics are used to describe Jane. The theme of independence was shown through many examples throughout the
book.
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” Charlotte Bronte said this quote, and had this concept shown throughout her book Jane Eyre. The most pivotal moment in Jane’s life was the moment Jane decided to leave Thornfield. The moments leading up to her final departure and the theme of independence is what ultimately pushed Jane to make the decision she made. She was a very independent person, free willed, and did not depend on anyone. The relationship between Rochester and Jane was needed because of the lack of love and care in the world before Jane met Rochester, but it was also necessary for her to walk away. This pivotal moment made Jane grow and branch out as a person, and set the tone for the rest of the book.