Monday, November 12, 2007

Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte


I find myself this morning a bit sad that this book is over. I now understand why first published in 1847, not only never has been out of print but is still widely read and considered a classic. I finished reading this book last night( well actually this morning at 2:30 a.m.) and found my dreams afterward were filled with the beautiful language of the era. I heard myself say, "I am much obliged to you," and "His temperament is much disposed to contentment." This book was such a contrast to her sister, Emily Bronte's Book, Wuthering Heights. Wuthering heights was a dark considerably ugly novel filled with hate, revenge and the weirdest most bitter love I have ever read. Contrastingly, Jane Eyre is filled with beauty, love in it's most selfless forms and a heroine in Jane. I am now sure that if I ever( keep your fingers crossed) am lucky enough to have a daughter her name must be Jane. Jane Eyre who was often noted as being plain and dull looking, had a beautiful mind and pure spirit that made her irresistible to those she was with. I don't want to say too much about the story because there are quite a few surprises and plot twists but I was amazed at Charlotte Bronte's ability to describe and create characters that you fall in love with, and create a novel that is unpredictable and engaging. This is a book you own and read over and over. It left me with a desire to be more like Jane - smart, thoughtful, morally strong, fair, and loyal. It is rare to find a book that inspires you to rise higher...it will definitely be on my Christmas list this year(hint hint Preston!) Thanks Ms. Charlotte Bronte for this brilliant classic!

2 comments:

lynsey said...

i know i read this a long time ago but after reading your review, i'm going to pick it up again! i felt the same way about wuthering heights, it just basically depressed me. so i'm excited to re-read this one. i thought you were going to name your first daughter lindsey after your two favorite people. replaced by a fictional heroine, i see. nice.

A True Janian Reply said...

Dear Andrea,
i have been reading Jane Eyre since I was 15 years old, and I am now in my 40's. Through every decade, the book changes for me. Before, I hated Rochester, now I love him--but one thing remains constant--my love for Jane and her beautiful spirit. I think Charlotte Bronte captured the yearnings and thoughts of every woman, to be loved and respected for who she is, wheter she is outwardly beautiful of not. Please feel free to view my own blog on Mr. Rochester. It's nothing serious, merely an exercise to "get into" Mr. R's character and learn something from Miss Bronte's inimitable style.