Student Worksheet Part 3

Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë,1847
PART 3 : THORNFIELD HALL

Chapter 11 :
1. Tick the box for the correct answer to each of these questions.Quote to justify.
a. What is Mrs Fairfax’s attitude towards Jane when she arrives at Thornfield ?
 warm and welcoming  distant and cold  impatient and irritable
b. What is Mrs Fairfax’s position at Thornfield ?
 owner  housekeeper(a person employed to perform cleaning and other domestic tasks
in a hotel or institution)  governess
c. What is Adèle’s relationship to Mr Rochester ?

 niece  daughter  ward(= a girl who lost her parents but got taken care of by
Mr.Rochester).
d. Where is Thornfield Hall ?
 six miles from Millcote  near Lowton  in the town of Millcote
e. Who does Mrs fairfax say is responsible for the strange laughter that Jane hears ?
 Leah  Adèle  Grace Poole(one of the servant)
2. What are Jane’s feelings as she waits for the carriage to take her to Thornfield Hall ?
Jane feels nervous,anxious but excited and proud because she finally done something by
herself and she is about to start a new life,new adventure.Apprehensive when she is
waiting alone the carriage,thinking she is forgotten.
3. How does Jane describe her own appearance ?
Poorly dressed, very skinny,old clothes, no beauty of herself, she is negative about her
physical appearance.
4. The presentation of the setting : read the passage from ‘When we left the dining-
room’ (chap.11,p.124) to ‘they rest tranquilly in their graves now.’ (p.125) (Penguin
Classics edition)
Question : How does Charlotte Brontë present Thornfield Hall ?

Think about how she creates an impression of grandeur and age and its atmosphere
and effect on Jane.
Point/detail Evidence Effect or explanation

1. Jane admires the C.Brontë uses adjectives Chanegement of
house as she follows Mrs such as scenery= new life,new
Faifax. ‘grand’ ,’handsome’ and place for Jane Eyre.
‘venerable’
2. The age of the house « the bed stand of an The place Jane is in, look
is emphasised by what hundred years pretty old,the fourniture is
Jane sees. old », « an arm chair changed often to follow
high-backed and old the fashion.It may shows
fashioned », « and ebon that even if the place
black with time and changed, her situation
rubbing » will be the same.
3. The house has an air « that wide hall,that dark Thornfied Hall look scary,
of gloom associated with and spacious Jane is'nt reassuring in
death and a hint of horror. staircase,and that sleeping in one of the big
long,cold gallery ». chambers present,it mays
means that something
hoororific will happen to
her or in the house one
day.
« there must be a skeleton in the closet » = there must be a secret in the family/the house.
A Gothic atmosphere = gloomy atmosphere/ gloom(nom). This atmosphere affect Jane's
mood,she starts to feel uneasy, as she walks along these corridors we can feel the
tension.It may be a hint(=une allusion) to the strange effects that are going to happen in
Thornfield.Charlotte Bronte uses the stropes(stereotypes) of gothic stories, the most
commun element in gothic stories ; une femme en détresse.
Who is Bluebeard ????
Bluebeard is a character named in the tale « The Blue Beard ».
Chapter 12 :
1. Complete this gap-fill paragraph about events in chapter 12 with correct or suitable
information.
By the start of Chapter 12 Jane has been at Thornfield for three months. Wanting a change
of scene, she walks to the nearby village of Hay. to post a letter. Hearing a horse
approaching she thinks of a mythical creature called a Gytrash.. . The horse slips on a
sheet of ice.. and the rider falls, spraining his ankle. Jane helps him and then continues on
her way. When Jane returns to Thornfield she discovers the rider was Mr.Rochester.
2. Why does Jane feel restless in spite of her happiness at Thornfield Hall ?
Jane is restless(agitée) because she feels lonely and finds her life monotonous,she
had been expecting a life full of adventure, full of life. However,she was most of the
time,confined to Thornfield. She took the opportunity Mrs.Fairfax needed to post a letter
to leave Thornfield.
3. Extract 6 : Read this extract from Chapter 12.
a. Highlight in 2 colours all the elements referring to sight and sound. Highlight
in different colours the alliterations and assonances in the first and second
paragraphs. Then read Sound Lab below and answer the questions.
On the hill-top above me sat the rising moon; pale yet as a cloud, but brightening
momentarily, she looked over Hay, which, half lost in trees, sent up a blue smoke from its few
chimneys: it was yet a mile distant, but in the absolute hush I could hear plainly its thin murmurs of
life. My ear, too, felt the flow of currents; in what dales and depths I could not tell: but there were
many hills beyond Hay, and doubtless many becks1 threading their passes. That evening calm
betrayed alike the tinkle of the nearest streams, the sough2 of the most remote.
A rude3 noise broke on these fine ripplings and whisperings, at once so far away and
so clear: a positive tramp, tramp, a metallic clatter, which effaced the soft wave-wanderings; as, in
a picture, the solid mass of a crag, or the rough boles of a great oak, drawn in dark and strong on
the foreground, efface the aerial distance of azure hill, sunny horizon, and blended clouds where
tint melts into tint.
The din was on the causeway: a horse was coming; the windings of the lane yet hid it,
but it approached. I was just leaving the stile4; yet, as the path was narrow, I sat still to let it go by.
In those days I was young, and all sorts of fancies bright and dark tenanted my mind: the
memories of nursery stories were there amongst other rubbish; and when they recurred, maturing
youth added to them a vigour and vividness beyond what childhood could give. As this horse
approached, and as I watched for it to appear through the dusk5, I remembered certain of Bessie’s
tales, wherein figured a North-of-England spirit called a ‘Gytrash,’ which, in the form of horse,
mule, or large dog, haunted solitary ways, and sometimes came upon belated travellers, as this
horse was now coming upon me.
It was very near, but not yet in sight; when, in addition to the tramp, tramp, I heard a
rush under the hedge, and close down by the hazel stems glided a great dog, whose black and
white colour made him a distinct object against the trees. It was exactly one form of Bessie’s
Gytrash—a lion-like creature with long hair and a huge head: it passed me, however, quietly
enough; not staying to look up, with strange pretercanine eyes, in my face, as I half expected it
would. The horse followed,—a tall steed, and on its back a rider. The man, the human being, broke
the spell at once. Nothing ever rode the Gytrash: it was always alone; and goblins6, to my notions,
though they might tenant the dumb carcasses of beasts, could scarce covet shelter in the
commonplace human form. No Gytrash was this,—only a traveller taking the short cut to Millcote.
He passed, and I went on; a few steps, and I turned: a sliding sound and an exclamation of ‘What
the deuce is to do now?’ and a clattering tumble, arrested my attention. Man and horse were down;
they had slipped on the sheet of ice which glazed the causeway. The dog came bounding back,
and seeing his master in a predicament, and hearing the horse groan, barked till the evening hills
echoed the sound, which was deep in proportion to his magnitude. He snuffed round the prostrate
group, and then he ran up to me; it was all he could do,—there was no other help at hand to
summon. I obeyed him, and walked down to the traveller, by this time struggling himself free of his
steed. His efforts were so vigorous, I thought he could not be much hurt; but I asked him the
question—
Are you injured, sir?’

1. a small river 2.a soft murmuring sound 3. here : loud, discordant 4.
échalier (et non, ce n’est pas une faute de frappe) 5. twilight 6. lutin
b. Identify the supernatural elements and sum up what Jane is expecting to see.
The harsh sounds of the next paragraph disrupt the harmony depicted before. The
quiet/ tranquility she left has been disrupted by a horse approaching. She can't help
thinking of Bessie's tales about supernatural creatures ; the gystrash,goblins...
There is also a dog along the horse and a rider. It also contributes to the gothic
atmosphere for staying at Thornfield. C. uses a lot of unconny(=étrange) words.
c. Focus on Jane’s perspective : pick out two sentences showing that Jane is
looking back at her younger self.
d. Sum up the plot twist at the end of the passage using the following words :
unexpected – mysterious atmosphere – a stranger in the night – brave
plot twist = un coup de théatre.
It's the first encounter between Mr.Rochester and Jane ; the rider is in fact Mr.Rochester.
Mr.Rochester is back to Thornield. Jane was brave and bold enough to talk to the stranger in the
night. His horse slip on a sheet of ice,as he was struggling to be free of his steed.
This extract is typical of a gothic romance because of the setting , the general atmosphere
because of the reference of the myserious elements, but also because we have two characters on
a desert road ,alone together ; they meet by chance.
SOUND LAB
Alliterations, assonances and rhythm.
The repetitions of a consonant or a vowel sound, as well as rhythm enable writers to build tension
and convey certain emotions. A syncopated rhythm often helps to create suspense or echo a
character’s feelings, while a smooth rhythm evokes some form of harmony.
a. Compare and contrast the sounds and rhtythm of the first and second paragraphs.
b. Explain how it foreshadows what is going to happen next and comment on its effects.
Read on a few paragraphs to discover the conversation between Jane and the stranger in
the night.
Focus on Gothic romance
Gothic romance is a subgenre of Gothic fiction, which emerged at the end of the 18th century and
was charcaterized by a dark atmosphere, haunted mansions, isolated settings and semi-
supernatural elements. Gothic romance novels included those elements as well as a female lead
overcoming obstacles and fighting to be with her true love. Jane Eyre was one of the first examples
of the subgenre.
A scene from Ann Radcliffe’s
novel : The Mysteries of Udolpho
(1794)
Your teacher’s tip : If you haven’t already, it’s time to watch the video on the Gothic and on
Byron and the Byronic hero (cf .doc A few links dans Espace des classes)
Write your notes here...
Extract 7 : read this excerpt from chapter 12 and focus on the two characters’ personality.
1. Highlight in different colours quotes showing the characters’ personality and choose
adjectives from the box to qualify them.
brooding(sombre,maussade) – daring – helpful – distant – solemn – puzzled – brave –

mysterious - autonomous
Something of daylight still lingered, and the moon was waxing bright: I could see him plainly. His
figure was enveloped in a riding cloak, fur collared and steel clasped; its details were not apparent, but I
traced the general points of middle height and considerable breadth of chest. He had a dark face, with stern
features and a heavy brow; his eyes and gathered eyebrows looked ireful and thwarted just now; he was
past youth, but had not reached middleage; perhaps he might be thirty-five. I felt no fear of him, and but little
shyness. Had he been a handsome, heroic-looking young gentleman, I should not have dared to stand thus
questioning him against his will, and offering my services unasked. I had hardly ever seen a handsome
youth; never in my life spoken to one. I had a theoretical reverence and homage for beauty, elegance,
gallantry, fascination; but had I met those qualities incarnate in masculine shape, I should have known
instinctively that they neither had nor could have sympathy with anything in me, and should have shunned
them as one would fire, lightning, or anything else that is bright but antipathetic.
If even this stranger had smiled and been good-humoured to me when I addressed him; if he had
put off my offer of assistance gaily and with thanks, I should have gone on my way and not felt any vocation
to renew inquiries: but the frown, the roughness of the traveller, set me at my ease: I retained my station
when he waved to me to go, and announced –
‘I cannot think of leaving you, sir, at so late an hour, in this solitary lane, till I see you are fit to mount
your horse.’
He looked at me when I said this; he had hardly turned his eyes in my direction before.
‘I should think you ought to be at home yourself,’ said he, ‘if you have a home in this neighbourhood:
where do you come from?’
‘From just below; and I am not at all afraid of being out late when it is moonlight: I will run over to Hay
for you with pleasure, if you wish it: indeed, I am going there to post a letter.’
‘You live just below—do you mean at that house with the battlements?’ pointing to Thornfield Hall, on
which the moon cast a hoary gleam, bringing it out distinct and pale from the woods that, by contrast with the
western sky, now seemed one mass of shadow.
‘Yes, sir.’
‘Whose house is it?’
‘Mr. Rochester’s.’
‘Do you know Mr. Rochester?’
‘No, I have never seen him.’
‘He is not resident, then?’
‘No.’
‘Can you tell me where he is?’
‘I cannot.’ ‘You are not a servant at the hall, of course. You are—’ He stopped, ran his eye over my
dress, which, as usual, was quite simple: a black merino cloak, a black beaver bonnet; neither of them half
fine enough for a lady’s-maid. He seemed puzzled to decide what I was; I helped him.
‘I am the governess.’
‘Ah, the governess!’ he repeated; ‘deuce take me, if I had not forgotten! The governess!’ and again
my raiment underwent scrutiny. In two minutes he rose from the stile: his face expressed pain when he tried
to move.
‘I cannot commission you to fetch help,’ he said; ‘but you may help me a little yourself, if you will be
so kind.’
‘Yes, sir.’
‘You have not an umbrella that I can use as a stick?’
‘No.’
‘Try to get hold of my horse’s bridle and lead him to me: you are not afraid?
I should have been afraid to touch a horse when alone, but when told to do it, I was disposed to
obey. I put down my muff on the stile, and went up to the tall steed; I endeavoured to catch the bridle, but it
was a spirited thing, and would not let me come near its head; I made effort on effort, though in vain:
meantime, I was mortally afraid of its trampling fore-feet. The traveller waited and watched for some time,
and at last he laughed.
This passage is interesting because it's the first time Jane is alone by himself and meet
someone without being under an insittution ; they only meet by chance. This random encounter
may announces that their relationship will be diferent than the others she had.Rochester is
presented as a man with charism,who is cold,intimidating and dark. She associates him as a cold
man that's why Jane is intimidating ; « I felt no fear of him, and but little shyness ». She isn't
scared of Mr.Rochester she is more shy as he approaches her than scared. This encounter may
be the first time we can associate Jane with romance ; she help a man , this is also the first time
she talk about handsome youth ; « I had hardly ever seen a handsome youth; never in my life
spoken to one »,and even the first time she talk to a man because she wanted to help. She
describes him very precisely ; that's may be for remember him or remember their first encounter.
What makes this passage interesting is how Mr.Rochester is introduced, he is not describe in an
objective way but by the way Jane sees him, the point of view is biased. This is rather an negative
description, he is presented as a grumpy (grincheux) traveler, brooding (rumine), he is
distant,cold;stern(sévère), rough (brupt) and mysterious. Finally,he seems quite unfriendly.Moreover(=plus)
he is not presented as a handsome mannor heroine looking gentleman,no prince charming.
But,paradoxically,this doesn't put off Jane,it makes her comfortable, she enjoys being in this man company,
it makes her fearless.So much so(à tel point) that she is daring(audacieuse) enough to adress him and offer to
help him.
Concerning social conventions;First at Rochester remarks Jane shouldn't be walking alone,at night
on a desert road path. Then, she souldn't adress a stranger so bodly. Of course, her behavior puzzle
Rochester, she don't react like other womans should react at that time ; that's lead him to question her ; where
she is from, what her statut is. But,on the whole it does'nt think much of her(=il ne pense pas grand chose de
Jane). What makes this passage interesting is also that he hides his identity, so that he could give the
impression that he is playing with her ; at the end of the extract he burst out of laughing, he can't help
laughing. That's shows that to that point, he was just pretending to be that cold, that strong.
2. a. Describe the setting of this first meeting.
The setting is a desert road, with nobody around,it's almost moonlight,it's pretty late.
b. Recap the atmosphere created by Charlotte Brontë before the two characters’
conversation.
Jane(small servant) doesn't know him yet the stranger is her
employer>Rochester( authority imposing). It's a master-servant relationship.
c. Comment on the effect on the reader.
3. Identify the expressions used by Jane to describe the traveller’s physical
appearance. Raphrase her first impressions.
«He had a dark face, with stern features and a heavy brow; his eyes and gathered
eyebrows looked ireful and thwarted just now; he was past youth, but had not reached
middleage; perhaps he might be thirty-five » > Rochester look
hostile,dark,intimidating,distant and cold.
4. Focus on the two characters’ conversation. Comment on their tone. You might use the
following words.
astounded(étonné ) – curious – at-ease – grumpy – romantic – unexpected meeting – unusual –

strong-willed
TRANSLATION LAB
a. Observe the following expressions and their French equivalents.
b. Write down the changes you have noticed.
Original text French translation by Mme Changed noticed

Lesbazeilles Souvestre
‘Something of daylight still Le jour n’était pas On est passé par une
lingered’ complètement fini. négation , la phrase est
formé par une formule
beaucoup plus simple que
poétique.
‘I could see him plainly’ Je pus voir l’étranger. Plainly (=entièrement)retiré
et étranger rajouté.
‘His figure was enveloped in Il était enveloppé d’une Figure disparu,on décrit plus
a riding cloak, fur collared redingote à collet de ses habits.
and steel clasped.’ fourrure et à boutons
d’acier.
5. Check your understanding : classify the following statements in the right order.
a. The traveller’s rude manners attract Jane. False
b. Jane reveals her identity.True
c. The traveller leans on Jane to mount(onter) his horse.False
d. Jane reflects on the meaning of beauty.True
The traveller tries to find out who Jane might be.True
Focus on … Gender roles

Gender roles were clearly defined and assigned in the Victorian era. Britain was a
male-dominated patriarchal society, in which men were expected to behave as
gentlemen, but were independent,free and associated to reason, action, and the
public sphere.
On the other hand, women were associated to the private and domestic sphere.
They were considered shy, emotional, quiet and weak,but were also expected to fulfil
many accomplishments.
Equality between men and women was not the norm in the period. It would be
very rare for a woman to walk alone without a chaperone and at night, hence the
traveller’s surprise when meeting Jane on the path.
Carry on reading until chapter 14 and find out about the mysterious traveller’s
identity.
Chapter 14 :
Extract 8 : Read this passage from chapter 14 and take notes on Jane’s description of
Mr.Rochester.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoWMqVWB0CE : adaptation de 2011 (Carry Fukunaga)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsz_PTu2x5Y : adaptation de 1983 (BBC mini series)
Note Box :
‘You examine me, Miss Eyre,’ said he: ‘do you think me handsome?’
I should, if I had deliberated, have replied to this question by something conventionally

vague and polite; but the answer somehow slipped from my tongue before I was aware—‘No, sir.’
‘Ah! By my word! there is something singular about you,’ said he: ‘you have the air of a little
nonnette; quaint1, quiet, grave, and simple, as you sit with your hands before you, and your eyes
generally bent on the carpet (except, by-the-bye, when they are directed piercingly to my face; as
just now, for instance); and when one asks you a question, or makes a remark to which you are
obliged to reply, you rap out a round rejoinder2, which, if not blunt, is at least brusque. What do you
mean by it?’
‘Sir, I was too plain; I beg your pardon. I ought to have replied that it was not easy to give
an impromptu answer to a question about appearances; that tastes mostly differ; and that beauty is
of little consequence, or something of that sort.’
‘You ought to have replied no such thing. Beauty of little consequence, indeed! And so,
under pretence of softening the previous outrage, of stroking and soothing me into placidity, you
stick a sly3 penknife under my ear! Go on: what fault do you find with me, pray? I suppose I have
all my limbs4 and all my features like any other man?’
‘Mr. Rochester, allow me to disown my first answer: I intended no pointed repartee: it was
only a blunder5.’
‘Just so: I think so: and you shall be answerable for it. Criticise me: does my forehead not
please you?’
He lifted up the sable waves of hair which lay horizontally over his brow, and showed a
solid enough mass of intellectual organs, but an abrupt deficiency where the suave sign of
benevolence should have risen.
‘Now, ma’am, am I a fool?’
‘Far from it, sir. You would, perhaps, think me rude if I inquired in return whether you are a
philanthropist?’
‘There again! Another stick of the penknife, when she pretended to pat6 my head: and that
is because I said I did not like the society of children and old women (low be it spoken!). No, young
lady, I am not a general philanthropist; but I bear a conscience;’ and he pointed to the prominences
which are said to indicate that faculty, and which, fortunately for him, were sufficiently conspicuous;
giving, indeed, a marked breadth to the upper part of his head: ‘and, besides, I once had a kind of
rude tenderness of heart. When I was as old as you, I was a feeling fellow enough, partial to the
unfledged, unfostered, and unlucky; but Fortune has knocked me about since: she has even
kneaded me with her knuckles, and now I flatter myself I am hard and tough as an India-rubber
ball; pervious8, though, through a chink or two still, and with one sentient point in the middle of the
lump. Yes: does that leave hope for me?’
‘Hope of what, sir?’
‘Of my final re-transformation from India-rubber back to flesh?’
‘Decidedly he has had too much wine,’ I thought; and I did not know what answer to make
to his queer question: how could I tell whether he was capable of being re-transformed?
‘You looked very much puzzled, Miss Eyre; and though you are not pretty any more than I
am handsome, yet a puzzled air becomes you; besides, it is convenient, for it keeps those
searching eyes of yours away from my physiognomy, and busies them with the worsted flowers of
the rug; so puzzle on. Young lady, I am disposed to be gregarious9 and communicative to-night.’
1.strange 2.reply 3.sournois 4.arms and legs 5.gaffe 6.tapoter 7.fond of, liking 8.perméable
9. sociable,talkative
1. Focus on the first three lines.
a. Explain how both characters’ words overstep the traditional master-servant

relationship.
Flaws = défauts
Rochester asked to see Jane to ake an aquintance and they start talking about
Mr.Rochester flaws, this is Mr.Rochester who asks to Jane , if she found him
handsome. This conversation oversteps(=dépasse) the master servant relationship
because this isn't the type of conversation a governess should have with her
employer.Jane is not afraid of giving her opinion, she is'nt afraid.
As Mr.Rochester apperance, Jane respond very honestly, sincerly, she does not try
to hide the truth contrary to,the social conventions demanded at that time. For
example, at the beginning we can see ; « I should have deliberated » ; she was
aware she challenge social conventions. But, she wasn't able to control her answer.
And this enable us to understand that she is a direct ,frank ,straight-forward person.
This whole passage contributes to her characterization as a sincere,determined and
original charcater.
This conversation makes her happy,she feel drawn(attiré) to Mr.rochester, even though she started
loving him she cannont unsee his flaws(défauts).
b. Pay attention to jane’s answer and comment on the effect of the punctuation
in her answer – ‘No,sir’.
Sir emplies that she knows where she is ,she stay polite but she did not hesitate to
tell him the truth. And the difference/dash create suspense.
In this passage Charlotte Bronte present us this heroine, voicing her opinion despite
the strict rules imposed by her social status(governess). Rochester and Jane are
talking about appereance, physical apperance, beauty and their conversation also
question the propriety(les convenances) and rules of that period.
Rochester admit he once had a rude and tenderless heart. This also proves that he
is hard-hearted.
2. Focus on Mr Rochester.
a. Comment on the effect of the metaphor : ‘I am hard and tough as an India-rubber

ball’
There is a contrast between with how he used to have a “rude tenderness of heart” be capable of
feelings and how his life experience seems to have turned him into a though character, almost
unfeeling. (He probably suffered in his life and learns to protect himself so as not to be hurt
again.) He rather reserved about his emotions.
b. Turn to the quote, ‘Of my final re-transformation from India-rubber back to

flesh’(=chair) .Imagine what possible clue Charlotte Brontë is giving us here as
to the outcome of the story.
He wonders if he will be sensitive again/ able to feel emotions again.

Jane is quite surprised/ bewildered by his question.
R. is willing to feel emotions and Jane is maybe the one who will help him.
Finish reading chapter 14 and focus on how Jane and Mr Rochester get to
know each other.
Despite their difference, they have the same opinion: “My eye met his as the idea crossed my
mind”
Focus on the passage from ‘I am willing to amuse you…’ to ‘nothing free-born

would submit to, even for a salary’
How does this passage develop ideas about equality ? Get ready to present your
answer to your classmates.
This passsage develop ideas about equality, because the social conventions seem to be
forgotten ; they have a normal conversation,they are speaking about if Mr.Rochester should be
masterful or not ; it may shows that he need Jane's point of view to make a decision. He often asks
her to speak ; « the smile is very well » , « but speak too » . He really want to have a conversation
with her ; he don't avoid her. That's can shows the equality in this passage. He is not mean,
mesquin with her, he don't mock her ; he seem to be respectful.
Read chapters 15 and 16.
1. Which of these statements about these chapters are TRUE and which are FALSE ?
a.Mr Rochester admits the mistakes he made in his relationship with Céline
Varens.False,she cheated on him.
b.Jane does not like hearing about Mr Rochester’s experiences. False, Jane seems
interested,she asks him a lot of questions.
c.Jane sees only goodness in Mr Rochester’s character.False, she can't help but list his
faults, but understand that his past or education may lead him to act that way,she excuses
him.
d.On the morning after the fire, Mr Rochester gives Jane a full explanation for it.FALSE,he
doesn't have a full explanation for this story.
e.Jane believes that Grace Poole is hiding the fact from her.True,she think,so.
f.Jane believes that Mr Rochester will marry Blanche Ingram.True,because Jane think she
is « no beauty ».
g.Jane cannot control her feelings of disappointment at the end of chapter 16. True,but she
control her feelings quickly after this.
2. How does Jane respond when she learns that Adèle is ‘the illegitimate offspring of a
French opera girl’ (chapter 15,p.170) ?
She may have pity for Adele.
Focus on … Supernatural elements and the uncanny.
The uncanny(étrange) is a psychological concept coined by Sigmund Freud also used

in arts and literature to refer to a strange and anxious feeling created by familiar
objects. It is often associated to Gothic fiction in which houses or some rooms are
frightening for the characters.
Supernatural elements, which are also a key characteristic of Gothic Fiction, contribute
to creating an uncanny atmosphere. They include strange creatures, ghosts and
witches, but also scary places or frightening events. Writers usually use supernatural
elements to create suspense and appeal to the imagination of the reader. In Gothic
romance, supernatural elements are often part of the main character’s journey and
foreshadow a plot twist. They are usually rationally explained later.
Extract 9 : Read this passage from chapter 15 and highlight all the Gothic elements
I tried again to sleep; but my heart beat anxiously: my inward tranquillity was broken.
The clock, far down in the hall, struck two. Just then it seemed my chamber-door was
touched; as if fingers had swept the panels in groping a way along the dark gallery outside.
I said, ‘Who is there?’ Nothing answered. I was chilled with fear.
All at once I remembered that it might be Pilot, who, when the kitchen-door chanced
to be left open, not unfrequently found his way up to the threshold of Mr. Rochester’s
chamber: I had seen him lying there myself in the mornings. The idea calmed me
somewhat: I lay down. Silence composes the nerves; and as an unbroken hush now
reigned again through the whole house, I began to feel the return of slumber. But it was not
fated that I should sleep that night. A dream had scarcely approached my ear, when it fled
affrighted, scared by a marrow-freezing incident enough.
This was a demoniac laugh—low, suppressed, and deep—uttered, as it seemed, at

the very keyhole of my chamber door. The head of my bed was near the door, and I
thought at first the goblin-laugher stood at my bedside—or rather, crouched by my pillow:
but I rose, looked round, and could see nothing; while, as I still gazed, the unnatural sound
was reiterated: and I knew it came from behind the panels. My first impulse was to rise and
fasten the bolt; my next, again to cry out, ‘Who is there?’
Something gurgled and moaned. Ere long, steps retreated up the gallery towards
the third-storey staircase: a door had lately been made to shut in that staircase; I heard it
open and close, and all was still.
‘Was that Grace Poole? and is she possessed with a devil?’ thought I. Impossible
now to remain longer by myself: I must go to Mrs. Fairfax. I hurried on my frock and a
shawl; I withdrew the bolt and opened the door with a trembling hand. There was a candle
burning just outside, and on the matting in the gallery. I was surprised at this circumstance:
but still more was I amazed to perceive the air quite dim, as if filled with smoke; and, while
looking to the right hand and left, to find whence these blue wreaths issued, I became
further aware of a strong smell of burning.
Something creaked: it was a door ajar; and that door was Mr. Rochester’s, and the
smoke rushed in a cloud from thence. I thought no more of Mrs. Fairfax; I thought no more
of Grace Poole, or the laugh: in an instant, I was within the chamber. Tongues of flame
darted round the bed: the curtains were on fire. In the midst of blaze and vapour, Mr.
Rochester lay stretched motionless, in deep sleep.
‘Wake! wake!’ I cried. I shook him, but he only murmured and turned: the smoke
had stupefied him. Not a moment could be lost: the very sheets were kindling, I rushed to
his basin and ewer; fortunately, one was wide and the other deep, and both were filled with
water. I heaved them up, deluged the bed and its occupant, flew back to my own room,
brought my own water-jug, baptized the couch afresh, and, by God’s aid, succeeded in
extinguishing the flames which were devouring it.
The hiss of the quenched element, the breakage of a pitcher which I flung from my
hand when I had emptied it, and, above all, the splash of the shower-bath I had liberally
bestowed, roused Mr. Rochester at last. Though it was now dark, I knew he was awake;
because I heard him fulminating strange anathemas at finding himself lying in a pool of
water.
‘Is there a flood?’ he cried.
‘No, sir,’ I answered; ‘but there has been a fire: get up, do; you are quenched now; I
will fetch you a candle.’
‘In the name of all the elves in Christendom, is that Jane Eyre?’ he demanded.
‘What have you done with me, witch, sorceress? Who is in the room besides you? Have
you plotted to drown me?’
‘I will fetch you a candle, sir; and, in Heaven’s name, get up. Somebody has plotted
something: you cannot too soon find out who and what it is.’
‘There! I am up now; but at your peril you fetch a candle yet: wait two minutes till I
get into some dry garments, if any dry there be—yes, here is my dressinggown. Now run!’
One night,she was trying to go to sleep but she started thinking about the day when
Rochester will leave Thornfield ; it makes her anxious and she couldn't sleep. That's when
she heard an horrific laugh ; she stood up but see nothing , it was very dark but she see a
lot of smoke. It was coming from Rochester room ; his bed were on fire. There was a lot of
emotions, the fact that Jane struggle to save Rochester from the flammes makes the
passage quite dramatic.But also,very romantic.Still writing in a gothic style because of the
time it took place (at night).However,there was still a lot of mysteries because Rochester
failed to provide a clear explanation of this incident.He also failed to find the culprit.He
choose not to tell Jane about the secret at Thornfiled.
Of course,Jane have started to suspect Grace Poole, she tried to interrogate her but
it was in vain. Then,Rochester left Thornfiled for a week or two. He didn't tell Jane about it ;
he went to Mr.Eshton's place; a place where rich people are invited. This is the moment
when the story take a turn ; she mention a young lady Blanche Ingram ; Mme.Fairfax talk
about her beauty,this remain to Jane how ugly she look, it remain her her position as a
governess. All of this made her quite disappointed.She again,manage to control her
emotions,feelings to kepp her calm.When Rochester return,he was announce ,as
preparations were made for the arrival of the guests, as she was talking with the
servants,she heard something that a secret was keeping away from her ; a new mystery.It's
also the moment where Jane started to wanted to leave Thornfield. There is a momet
where she was requested by Rochester to bring Adele to the room where the guest where,
as she was standing in the room she could observe Rochester and she could also observe
Blanche Ingram.By observing them,she could reason herself,contain her
feeling,emotions,but as she obersve them together,she realise that in fact Blache Ingram
was inferior to Jane;she understand that if Rochester were to marry her it will be for family
or political reasons,never for love.He act like her social class around her or her family,not
naturally. When Jane cameback at Thornfiled after see her aunt died, and learn about the
letter she was glad to see Rochester again,glad to be welcomed by Mr.Fairfax and
Adele,but she also realize that no preparations for the weeding were being made ,expect
for the carriage which lead to he church. The evening when Jane and Rochester encounter
happen they talk about the future weeding,about Adele being sent to school but also that
Jane will have to find another job.This is the moment when Rochester inform her about a
new governess job,he found for her.
1.a. Pick out words and expressions belonging to the following lexical fields.
Sight and sound Anxiety Supernatural elements

« air quite dim, as if filled « ‘Wake! wake!’ I cried. I « This was a demoniac
with smoke », « a strong shook him », «Now run!’ » laugh », « as I still gazed,
smell of burning », the unnatural sound was
reiterated ».
« smoke rushed in a cloud
from thence ».
1.b. Comment on the gloomy atmosphere of the passage and explain how Charlotte Brontë
was inspired by Gothic fiction.
The gloomy atmosphere is very oppresive , as we are confronted to supernatural elements in the
beggining and it quickly becomes a real accident ; there was a fire in Mr.Rochester room and these
events may be linked ; the demon Jane talks about ; « a demoniac laugh » may start this fire.
Charlotte Bronte was inspired by Gothic fiction with the suspense she create ; if the demon is going
to enter in Jane room and attack her,but also because she talks about supernatural elements ; a
demon.
There is a gloomy atmosphere , because we are in the middle of the night and at that time we
could'nt see a thing , it was very dark.Jane is the only one awake. Supernaturals elements are
happening, there might be a monster,a ghost , it scares her because of the laugh she heard two
times,we expect something terrible to happend.Jane is not alone in the mansion but the only one
awake ; something must happen to her. But she is courageous and stand up to look out in the
corridor ; she is ready to take action if needed. She is presented as a couragous woman. As she
apporach the candle she see Mr.Rochester's room in fire ; she is gonna help him , she is again the
savior. Charlotte Bronte describes the dramatic incident ; someone has set fire to Mr.Rochester's
bed.
2. Explain what Jane might be afraid of when she says : ‘Something gurgled and moaned.Ere
long, steps retreated up the gallery towards the third-storey staircase : a door had lately been
made to shut in that staircase ; I heard it open and close, and all was still.’
Comment on the effect on us readers.
We may think that Grace Poole wanted to murder Mr.Rochester,because she is the only one to be
presented as a danger.
3.a. Compare and contrast Jane’s state of mind between the beginning and the end of the
passage.
At the begining,Jane is afraid , she is imagining strange and mysterious things but at the end we
have this very courageous character who rush to help Mr.Rochester.
b. Why can we say this event constitutes a next step in Jane and Rochester’s relationship ?
First, she saved his life, he may consider her more. They share a secret that Mr.Rochester don't
want to share to others ; they can be closer than before. It may be the event that makes
Mr.Rochester love Jane.
4. Check your understanding. Tick the correct answer.
a. The scene takes place  in broad daylight  when it’s pitch dark
b. The setting is  joyful  intriguing
c. Jane feels  disturbed  relaxed
d. Jane saves Rochester  from an enemy  from the fire
e. The two characters are  getting closer  ignoring each other
Chapter 16 :
1. In what way is Blanche Ingram different from Jane ?
She is wealthier than Jane,she dress in an elegant way with beautiful dresses,she can play
piano and sing along,she also doesn't have to depend from a job for a living,she is rich
enough.
2. Jane’s inner voice :
Reread jane’s words to herself from ‘That a greater fool than Jane Eyre’ (ch.16 p.186)
to ‘I grew calm, and fell asleep’ (p.187)
How does this passage show Jane’s ability to control her emotions ?
Think about :
- the feelings Jane expresses
- the language she uses to reproach herself.
Get ready to present your answer to your classmates.
Jane express anger,shame and pity for herself; she is angry about herself ; how can
Mr.Rochester be interested in her ; « a Governess,disconnected,poor,and plain » while Blanche
Ingram is a « accomplished lady of rank ». She calls herself a « poor stupid dupe ». She accuses
herslef for being that dumb to think that Mr.Rochester could like her the same way Jane does. She
is ashamed because in the morning she repeated to herself a scene she had with Mr.Rochester
when they were pretty close to each other, she accuses herself to be « a blind puppy », for her the
fact that Mr.rochester could like her is litteraly impossible, she is a poor governess she works for,
while Blanche is at the same social class than him,she is beautiful and talented , she express pity
becuse she drew her and Blanche and realizes how Mr.Rochester could never choose her over
Blanche, because of the fact that she is a « indigent and insignificant plebeian », how could she
ever think he could choose her,she has pity for her to get this thought ; « open their bleared lids
and look on your own accursed senselessness ! ».
Carry on reading until chapter 23 to discover more about the mysteries of Thornfield
and focus on the various feelings involved.
Again, choose a passage you particularly enjoyed reading and present it to your
classmates.
I choose the passage where Jane left the drawing -room with all the guests in because when
Mr.Rochester started sining,his voice was « finding a way through the ear to the heart, and there
waking up sensation strangely » ,I interprate this passage as the moment where Jane started to fell
even more for Mr.Rochester but as he was with Blanche Ingram, who is perfect for him than her ; a
poor governess. She just wanted to leave to stop this strange feeling she was experiencing. But as
she leaves she heard the dining-room door being unclose ; it was Mr.Rochester who was trying to
catch Jane to make her come back in the room, and to know why she leave and how she was
doing. The fact that Mr.Rochester choose to follow his governess while he got guests present for
him shows that he care for her more than the other servants he have or even the guests in the
dining-room ; he seems concerned about Jane physical appearance, she seems paler than she
was before ; he then ask if she is sick or not. All these questions shows that he want to know how
she is feeling ,what she does in his absence, who can shows that Mr.Rochester want to knows if
Jane like his presence. This scene is romantic, we get to see Mr.Rochester running after Jane after
she suddenly leaves the room , it's pretty dark and they are alone in the hall, he even ask Jane to
be in the drawing room every night while the guest are here ; « it is my wish » . He really want
Jane to be near him while he is in Thornfiled. When he was about to leaves , he say « Good
night,my- » ; we understand here that he was about to call Jane with an emotional nickname ;
that's shows hos for Mr.Rochester how special Jane seems to be for him ; this nickname also
shows his affection towards Jane. That's why i choose this passage because he shows that Jane
isn't making scenarios in her head, Mr.Rochester do like her, at least more than the other servants.
Chapter 23
Extract 10 : As you read this extract from chapter 23, underline all the expressions
that refer to love and romance.
‘It is a long way off, sir.’
‘No matter—a girl of your sense will not object to the voyage or the distance.’ ‘Not
the voyage, but the distance: and then the sea is a barrier—‘
‘From what, Jane?’
‘From England and from Thornfield: and—‘
‘Well?’
‘From YOU, sir.’
I said this almost involuntarily, and, with as little sanction of free will, my tears
gushed out1. I did not cry so as to be heard, however; I avoided sobbing. The
thought of Mrs. O’Gall and Bitternutt Lodge struck cold to my heart; and colder the
thought of all the brine and foam2, destined, as it seemed, to rush between me and
the master at whose side I now walked, and coldest the remembrance of the wider
ocean—wealth, caste, custom intervened between me and what I naturally and
inevitably loved.
‘It is a long way,’ I again said.
‘It is, to be sure; and when you get to Bitternutt Lodge, Connaught, Ireland, I shall
never see you again, Jane: that’s morally certain. I never go over to Ireland, not
having myself much of a fancy for the country. We have been good friends, Jane;
have we not?’
‘Yes, sir.’
‘And when friends are on the eve of separation, they like to spend the little time that
remains to them close to each other. Come! we’ll talk over the voyage and the
parting quietly half-an-hour or so, while the stars enter into their shining life up in
heaven yonder: here is the chestnut tree: here is the bench at its old roots. Come,
we will sit there in peace to-night, though we should never more be destined to sit
there together.’ He seated me and himself.
‘It is a long way to Ireland, Janet, and I am sorry to send my little friend on such
weary travels: but if I can’t do better, how is it to be helped? Are you anything akin3
to me, do you think, Jane?’
I could risk no sort of answer by this time: my heart was still.

‘Because,’ he said, ‘I sometimes have a queer4 feeling with regard to you—
especially when you are near me, as now: it is as if I had a string somewhere under
my left ribs5, tightly and inextricably knotted to a similar string situated in the
corresponding quarter of your little frame. And if that boisterous6 Channel, and two
hundred miles or so of land come broad between us, I am afraid that cord of
communion will be snapt; and then I’ve a nervous notion I should take to bleeding
inwardly. As for you,—you’d forget me.’
‘That I NEVER should, sir: you know—’ Impossible to proceed.
‘Jane, do you hear that nightingale7 singing in the wood? Listen!’
In listening, I sobbed convulsively; for I could repress what I endured no longer; I

was obliged to yield8, and I was shaken from head to foot with acute distress. When
I did speak, it was only to express an impetuous wish that I had never been born, or
never come to Thornfield.
‘Because you are sorry to leave it?’ The vehemence of emotion, stirred by grief and
love within me, was claiming mastery, and struggling for full sway, and asserting a
right to predominate, to overcome, to live, rise, and reign at last: yes,—and to speak.
‘I grieve to leave Thornfield: I love Thornfield:- I love it, because I have lived in it a
full and delightful life,— momentarily at least. I have not been trampled on9. I have
not been petrified. I have not been buried with inferior minds, and excluded from
every glimpse of communion with what is bright and energetic and high. I have
talked, face to face, with what I reverence, with what I delight in,—with an original, a
vigorous, an expanded mind. I have known you, Mr. Rochester; and it strikes me
with terror and anguish to feel I absolutely must be torn from you for ever. I see the
necessity of departure; and it is like looking on the necessity of death.’
1.Couler à flots 2. the sea 3.similar to 4.strange 5.côtes 6.agité 7.rossignol
8.céder 9.mistreated shown
Focus on… Romanticism
Romanticism was a literary movement which emerged in the 18th century.

Romantic writers focused on intense individual emotions and a glorification of
nature. Nature was often seen as a reflection of a character’s inner turmoil or
experience.The setting and the seasons were very important, just as in this
extract from Jane Eyre.
Both of them understand that they can't live apart. R. feels it is better for Jane to
leave Thonrfield. J. knows she has to even if she doesn't want to. Emotions =
expressed differently. Jane is more passionate than Rochester.Jane is very
sincere ,we can feel the intensity of her emotions.She don't control her emotions as
she did before, when she admit felling sad at leaving Thornfiled,Rochester. For
her,leaving this place be tantamount(«équivaut ») to diying.
1. Read the beginning of chapter 23 and pick out éléments that contribute to
building a romantic setting.
We understand that the two characters are outside, the nature,landscapes
seems beautiful and relaxing,this setting alredy set an romantic setting. But what
add to this romantic setting is how the author describe to us the inner turmoil of
Jane as Mr.Rochester speaks ; it is very well described , we understand how
anxious she is to leave him and that if she could go back in time she would have
chosen to never come in Thornfiled ; taht's shows how painful this decision is for
her.
2. Spot the plot element that the characters are discussing in the passage.
They are discussing of the departure that Jane will do to Ireland ; that's also
means that she will leave Mr.Rochester and Thornfield. This departure is also an
occasion for both of them to express their feelings towards each other ; they also
talk about their own feelings.
3. Fill in the chart with the characters’ names to qualify their reaction to this
potential event.
Ambiguous,unconventional and Upset,passionate and sincere

romantic
Jane Eyre Mr.Rochester
4. Rephrase and comment on Mr Rochester’s sentences highlighted in the

text. What message on relationships and passion is Charlotte Brontë
trying to convey ?
She is trying to convey a true love ; a love shared by two peoples, who love
each other sincerely, not a love where the woman or the man will take
advantage of the situtation of the weeding ; like a medium family promise their
child to a rich family for them to be wealthier.
Focus on … the myth of soulmates
The myth of the other half comes from Greek mythology. Plato in The Symposium explained that
originally humans formed one body and were separated by Zeus, who punished them and who
condemned them to spend their life searching to be reunited with their missing half. The notion of
‘soulmate’ comes from that myth and means the idea of two people who are meant for each other,
deeply connected and can’t be apart.
5. Focus on the last paragraph :

a. Explain why Jane absolutely doesn’t want to leave Thornfield.
She don't want to leave Thornfield because if she do, she will never see Mr.Rochester ever
again ; but also because at this place she never feel mistreated, left out ; she fell very good
while being there ; everyone was nice to her, nobody beat or yell to her.
b. Rephrase and comment on the effect of the repetitions and say how Charlotte Brontë
introduces us to a brave,strong character. You can use the following words.
self-respect – express one’s feelings – assert oneself - passionate
Jane along with Mr.Rochester express one's feeling ;the pain to be far from him,to be
separated.She is sincerely speaking to him, she is expressing what it will be if they have to be
seperated. The repetitions shows us how hard it will be for her to leave this place ; Jane is
passionate as she speaks, she is not repeating something.At the beginning, She is trying to assert
oneself that the pain to leave this place will be because she loved to be there,she was respected
for the first time in her life,she feel at her place ; here her self-respect is speaking , she doesn't
assume her own felings towards Mr.Rochester, but as she speaks she will finally assume that the
saddest thing about leaving this place will be to never see him ever again.In this passage , we
understand how strong and brave Jane is ; she have to take a, important decision and she will be
seperated from her love.
6. Check your understanding.
Find the false statements and justify.
a. Mr Rochester and Jane dread to be separated. True ; both of them express
how hard it will be to be far from each other.
b. Jane is not affected by Mr Rochester’s words. False ; all along the extract
Jane is trying to control how she fell ; she just hide her reaction, her
emotions ; « I could risk no sort of answer by this time: my heart was still »
c. Jane finds it impossible to contain her passion. True, it's very hard for her to
contain her passion, she even got repercussions on her body ;In listening, I
sobbed convulsively; for I could repress what I endured no longer; I was
obliged to yield8, and I was shaken from head to foot with acute distress ». It
seems impossible for her to contain her own feelings, that's why she express
at the end how she will fell to be seperated from Mr.Rochester.
d. Jane feels she’s not treated fairly at Thornfield.False, she even explain how
it was the first time in her life,where she wasn't mistreated, or petrified, she
was finally feeling good about a place she live in ; « I have not been
petrified. I have not been buried with inferior minds, and excluded from every
glimpse of communion with what is bright and energetic and high. I have
talked, face to face, with what I reverence, with what I delight in,—with an
original, a vigorous, an expanded mind. »
Read this extract that immediately follows the previous one, and pick out expressions
referring to free will and equality.
Extract 11 : A romantic prospect ?
‘Where do you see the necessity?’ he asked suddenly.
‘Where? You, sir, have placed it before me.’
‘In what shape?’
‘In the shape of Miss Ingram; a noble and beautiful woman,—your bride.’
‘My bride! What bride? I have no bride!’
‘But you will have.’
‘Yes;—I will!—I will!’ He set his teeth.
‘Then I must go:- you have said it yourself.’
‘No: you must stay! I swear it—and the oath shall be kept.’
‘I tell you I must go!’ I retorted, roused to something like passion. ‘Do you think I can stay to
become nothing to you? Do you think I am an automaton?—a machine without feelings? and can
bear to have my morsel of bread snatched from my lips, and my drop of living water dashed from
my cup? Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless?
You think wrong!—I have as much soul as you,—and full as much heart! And if God had gifted me
with some beauty and much wealth, I should have made it as hard for you to leave me, as it is now
for me to leave you. I am not talking to you now through the medium of custom, conventionalities,
nor even of mortal flesh;—it is my spirit that addresses your spirit; just as if both had passed
through the grave, and we stood at God’s feet, equal,—as we are!’
‘As we are!’ repeated Mr. Rochester—‘so,’ he added, enclosing me in his arms. Gathering me to
his breast, pressing his lips on my lips: ‘so, Jane!’
‘Yes, so, sir,’ I rejoined: ‘and yet not so; for you are a married man—or as good as a married man,
and wed to one inferior to you—to one with whom you have no sympathy—whom I do not believe
you truly love; for I have seen and heard you sneer at her. I would scorn such a union: therefore I
am better than you—let me go!’
‘Where, Jane? To Ireland?’
‘Yes—to Ireland. I have spoken my mind, and can go anywhere now.’
‘Jane, be still; don’t struggle so, like a wild frantic bird that is rending its own plumage in its
desperation.’
‘I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will, which I
now exert to leave you.’
Another effort set me at liberty, and I stood erect before him.
‘And your will shall decide your destiny,’ he said: ‘I offer you my hand, my heart, and a share of all
my possessions.’
‘You play a farce, which I merely laugh at.’
‘I ask you to pass through life at my side—to be my second self, and best earthly companion.’
‘For that fate you have already made your choice, and must abide by it.’
‘Jane, be still a few moments: you are over-excited: I will be still too.’
A waft of wind came sweeping down the laurel-walk, and trembled through the boughs of the
chestnut: it wandered away—away—to an indefinite distance—it died. The nightingale’s song was
then the only voice of the hour: in listening to it, I again wept. Mr. Rochester sat quiet, looking at
me gently and seriously. Some time passed before he spoke; he at last said –
‘Come to my side, Jane, and let us explain and understand one another.’
‘I will never again come to your side: I am torn away now, and cannot return.’
‘But, Jane, I summon you as my wife: it is you only I intend to marry.’
I was silent: I thought he mocked me.
‘Come, Jane—come hither.’
‘Your bride stands between us.’
He rose, and with a stride reached me.
‘My bride is here,’ he said, again drawing me to him, ‘because my equal is here, and my likeness.
Jane, will you marry me?’
Still I did not answer, and still I writhed myself from his grasp: for I was still incredulous.
‘Do you doubt me, Jane?’
‘Entirely.’
‘You have no faith in me?’
‘Not a whit.’
‘Am I a liar in your eyes?’ he asked passionately. ‘Little sceptic, you SHALL be convinced. What
love have I for Miss Ingram? None: and that you know. What love has she for me? None: as I have
taken pains to prove: I caused a rumour to reach her that my fortune was not a third of what was
supposed, and after that I presented myself to see the result; it was coldness both from her and
her mother. I would not—I could not—marry Miss Ingram. You— you strange, you almost unearthly
thing!—I love as my own flesh. You—poor and obscure, and small and plain as you are—I entreat
to accept me as a husband.’
Rochester makes passionate proposal to Jane but she had to feel the marriage
would be as equal as she want to be free of gender inequality.In this romantic
scene,Jane and Rochester seems made of each other even though they would have
to overcome social rules and expectations because they aren't in the same social
class.
1.a. Explain why jane feels she must go.
Jane is decieded to leave ,she cannot stay as Rochester is going to marry Blanche Ingram.
Rochester proposes to her( a marriage proposal). It's unexpected,sudden.
b. Comment on the effect of her multiple questions on the readers.
It creates a feminist view ; they should be able to decide for herself;they don't have to depend on
their husbands ; she ask him a lot of questions to be sure he really love her.
2.Turn to Jane’s sentence, ‘I am no bird ; and no net ensnares me ; I am a free human being
with an independent will, which I now exert to leave you ?’. Comment on the metaphor used and
explain how Charlotte Brontë conveyed a message on women’s freedom.
Feminist view ; women at that time should be free to do their own decisions, and not depend on
her husband for a living.
3. Rephrase and comment on Mr.Rochester’s reaction.
He is schoked of the fact that Jane don't believe him ; he then list his arguments to prove
he love her and not Miss Ingram for Jane to be able to trust him ; « What love have I for
Miss Ingram? None: and that you know. What love has she for me? None: as I have taken
pains to prove: I caused a rumour to reach her that my fortune was not a third of what was
supposed, and after that I presented myself to see the result; it was coldness both from her
and her mother ».
4. Pay attention to Mr Rochester’s feelings for Jane. Highlight all the sentences in
which he declares his love.
5. Sum up the situation using the folowing words and particularly insist on both characters’
feelings and Jane’s necessity for self-fulfilment and gender equality.
passionate – proposal – yearn to be free – gender inequality – romantic – meant for each other –
overcome social rules
Rochester is making his proposal to Jane to be his wife in a passionate way ; he is romantic all the
extract and rassure her about the fact that thy will be equals ; gender inequality wouldn't exist
between them. Rochester overcome social rules by propose to Jane ; a governess should't marry a
wealthy man ; she normally would marry a man who have a normal job like Bessie did.Like
this ,she will be able to survive thanks to his salary.It propably mean that they are meant for each
other ; they love each other beyond all the conventions that exist ; they are ready to overcome,beat
them for their love, for them to be together,to be wife and husband.
STYLE LAB
Nature and feelings
In romantic narratives, nature often serves as an echo for the characters’feelings and a projection
of their emotions. It also serves as a clue for readers as how the plot mght evolve.
a. Observe the two references to nature from ‘A waft of wind…’ to ‘ again wept.’
b. Explain how Charlotte Brontë used nature to anticipate on what was going to happen
next.
Jane relax by feeling the « A waft of wind came sweeping down the laurel-walk, and
trembled through the boughs of the chestnut »,it calm their spirits and make a pause for the
revelations to come.The fact that the nature is so calm may show that the best or worse will
happen.
6.Check your understanding : match the characters’name with the right statement(s) :
Jane, Rochester or Jane and Rochester.
Jane * wants to be treated as an equal, refuses to stay and be deprived(privé) of true love.
Rochester * declares his love and proposes ,is reassuring.
Jane and Rochester * realise they are meant for each other, ignore conventions and social norms
of the period, can’t stand to be apart.
Carry on reading until chapter 26 to discover more about Jane and Rochester’s
relationship.
Chapter 26 – Extract 12 : The lunatic in the attic.
Gentlemen, my plan is broken up:- what this lawyer and his client say is true: I have been
married, and the woman to whom I was married lives! You say you never heard of a Mrs.
Rochester at the house up yonder, Wood; but I daresay you have many a time inclined your ear to
gossip about the mysterious lunatic kept there under watch and ward. Some have whispered to
you that she is my bastard halfsister: some, my cast- off mistress. I now inform you that she is my
wife, whom I married fifteen years ago,—Bertha Mason by name; sister of this resolute personage,
who is now, with his quivering limbs and white cheeks, showing you what a stout heart men may
bear. Cheer up, Dick!— never fear me!—I’d almost as soon strike a woman as you. Bertha Mason
is mad; and she came of a mad family; idiots and maniacs through three generations? Her mother,
the Creole, was both a madwoman and a drunkard!—as I found out after I had wed the daughter:
for they were silent on family secrets before. Bertha, like a dutiful child, copied her parent in both
points. I had a charming partner—pure, wise, modest: you can fancy I was a happy man. I went
through rich scenes! Oh! my experience has been heavenly, if you only knew it! But I owe you no
further explanation. Briggs, Wood, Mason, I invite you all to come up to the house and visit Mrs.
Poole’s patient, and MY WIFE! You shall see what sort of a being I was cheated into espousing,
and judge whether or not I had a right to break the compact, and seek sympathy with something at
least human. This girl,’ he continued, looking at me, ‘knew no more than you, Wood, of the
disgusting secret: she thought all was fair and legal and never dreamt she was going to be
entrapped into a feigned union with a defrauded wretch, already bound to a bad, mad, and
embruted partner! Come all of you—follow!’
Still holding me fast, he left the church: the three gentlemen came after. At the front door of
the hall we found the carriage.
‘Take it back to the coach-house, John,’ said Mr. Rochester coolly; ‘it will not be wanted to-
day.’
At our entrance, Mrs. Fairfax, Adele, Sophie, Leah, advanced to meet and greet us.
‘To the right-about—every soul!’ cried the master; ‘away with your congratulations! Who
wants them? Not I!—they are fifteen years too late!’
He passed on and ascended the stairs, still holding my hand, and still beckoning the
gentlemen to follow him, which they did. We mounted the first staircase, passed up the gallery,
proceeded to the third storey: the low, black door, opened by Mr. Rochester’s master-key, admitted
us to the tapestried room, with its great bed and its pictorial cabinet.
‘You know this place, Mason,’ said our guide; ‘she bit and stabbed you here.’
He lifted the hangings from the wall, uncovering the second door: this, too, he opened. In a
room without a window, there burnt a fire guarded by a high and strong fender, and a lamp
suspended from the ceiling by a chain. Grace Poole bent over the fire, apparently cooking
something in a saucepan. In the deep shade, at the farther end of the room, a figure ran
backwards and forwards. What it was, whether beast or human being, one could not, at first sight,
tell: it grovelled, seemingly, on all fours; it snatched and growled like some strange wild animal: but
it was covered with clothing, and a quantity of dark, grizzled hair, wild as a mane, hid its head and
face.
‘Good-morrow, Mrs. Poole!’ said Mr. Rochester. ‘How are you? and how is your charge to-
day?’
‘We’re tolerable, sir, I thank you,’ replied Grace, lifting the boiling mess carefully on to the
hob: ‘rather snappish, but not ‘rageous.’
A fierce cry seemed to give the lie to her favourable report: the clothed hyena rose up, and
stood tall on its hind-feet.
‘Ah! sir, she sees you!’ exclaimed Grace: ‘you’d better not stay.’
‘Only a few moments, Grace: you must allow me a few moments.’
‘Take care then, sir!—for God’s sake, take care!’
The maniac bellowed: she parted her shaggy locks from her visage, and gazed wildly at her
visitors. I recognised well that purple face,—those bloated features(she see her in her dream,thta's
why she say that) Mrs. Poole advanced.
‘Keep out of the way,’ said Mr. Rochester, thrusting her aside: ‘she has no knife now, I
suppose, and I’m on my guard.’
‘One never knows what she has, sir: she is so cunning: it is not in mortal discretion to
fathom her craft.’
‘We had better leave her,’ whispered Mason.
‘Go to the devil!’ was his brother-in-law’s recommendation.
‘‘Ware!’ cried Grace. The three gentlemen retreated simultaneously. Mr. Rochester flung
me behind him: the lunatic sprang and grappled his throat viciously, and laid her teeth to his cheek:
they struggled. She was a big woman, in stature almost equalling her husband, and corpulent
besides: she showed virile force in the contest— more than once she almost throttled him, athletic
as he was. He could have settled her with a well-planted blow; but he would not strike: he would
only wrestle. At last he mastered her arms; Grace Poole gave him a cord, and he pinioned them
behind her: with more rope, which was at hand, he bound her to a chair. The operation was
performed amidst the fiercest yells and the most convulsive plunges. Mr. Rochester then turned to
the spectators: he looked at them with a smile both acrid and desolate.
‘That is MY WIFE,’ said he. ‘Such is the sole conjugal embrace I am ever to know—such
are the endearments which are to solace my leisure hours! And THIS is what I wished to have’
(laying his hand on my shoulder): ‘this young girl, who stands so grave and quiet at the mouth of
hell, looking collectedly at the gambols of a demon, I wanted her just as a change after that fierce
ragout. Wood and Briggs, look at the difference! Compare these clear eyes with the red balls
yonder—this face with that mask— this form with that bulk; then judge me, priest of the gospel and
man of the law, and remember with what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged! Off with you now. I
must shut up my prize.’
We all withdrew. Mr. Rochester stayed a moment behind us, to give some further order to
Grace Poole. The solicitor addressed me as he descended the stair.
The weeding was interrupted by Mr.Briggs he is a solicitor (=lawyer,avocat) along with
Manson who knows the uncle of Jane , and he is the brother in law of Rochester because of the
current crazy wife of Rochester ; Bertha's, he is her brother. Jade sent a letter to her uncle John
Eyre about the weeding that's why he sent Manson to stop their wedding because Manson knows
that Rochester was already married with her brother. John Eyre live in Madeira ,but he was sick so
he could'nt go to England that's why he sent Manson for him. Manson knows his sister was still
alive because he see her at Thornfield;she even attack him.
1. Sum up Mr Rochester’s revelation and comment on the atmosphere of the scene.
Mr .Rochester took the prest, Manson ,the lawyer and Jane to the room at Thonrfiled
where his ill wife was taken care of by Grace Poole.He didn't deny the fact that he is
married to her.He explain why he got to marry her and what happend after ; an
arranged marriage by Rochester father ; Bertha's parents were ill ; so she slowly
became ill too.
2. Focus on the events in this passage and put them back in the right order.
Mr Rochester is attacked 4 The wedding is cancelled 1
The group climbs up to the attic 2 Mr Rochester introduces Bertha Mason 3
3. Focus on Bertha Mason’s portrayal.

She is not presented as a human but as a animal.Charlotte Bronte pills up(empile) the
description that indeed make us understan that Bertha is only a wild beast ; very
gortesc picture of Greta(=refer to her monstruosity,exagerated). She is a violent
woman,almost as big as him.Jane is portrayed as the anthesis(opposé) of Gretha.
a. Pick out expressions belonging to the following lexical fields.
Madness Animality
«the lunatic sprang and grappled « What it was, whether beast or
his throat viciously, and laid her human being, one could not, at
teeth to his cheek: » first sight, tell: »
4. a. Pick out a sentence showing that :

– Mr Rochester was a victim of an arranged marriage.
«You shall see what sort of a being I was cheated into espousing, and judge whether or not
I had a right to break the compact, and seek sympathy with something at least human ».
– Jane is now a victim of Mr Rochester’s plan.
« I wanted her just as a change after that fierce ragout. Wood and Briggs, look at the
difference!».
b. Explain how the revelation of the lunatic in the attic helps Charlotte Brontë
convey a message on love and marriage.
That's shows that arranged marriage don't work as well as true love weddings.They often finish
bad.She convey a message;that's we must overcome arranged marriages to prefer true love
weedings ; they work better.
5. a. Recap Jane’s attitude in the whole scene.
She is shocked,in a state of shock ; she didn't say a word becaue it's the first time ever
she see a woman be such an animal.
b.Comment on the effect on us readers.
We may think that Rochester is also a liar,a cheater because he didn't say a thing to
Jane about Bertha.This passage also serves to lead the plot forward.The passage
provide the conflict that Jane and Rochester will have to face to be reunited, to Jane to
be able to trust Rochester again.
6. Check your understanding. Fill in the gaps with words from the box.
depersonalised – frustrated – the lunatic in the attic – rebelling - twist
a. An unexpected twist takes place in chapter 26.

b. Characters and readers discover the existence of the lunatic in the attic(grenier);
Gretha.
c. Bertha Mason is depersonalised(déshumanisé) and even attacks Mr Rochester.
d. Mr Rochester is frustrated and rebelling against social norms.
Should i stay or should I go
Read the extract from chapter 27 and underline Jane and Rochester’s arguments in two
different colours.
This was true: and while he spoke my very conscience and reason turned traitors against
me, and charged me with crime in resisting him. They spoke almost as loud as Feeling: and that
clamoured wildly. ‘Oh, comply!’ it said. ‘Think of his misery; think of his danger—look at his state
when left alone; remember his headlong nature; consider the recklessness following on despair—
soothe him; save him; love him; tell him you love him and will be his. Who in the world cares for
YOU? or who will be injured by what you do?
’ Still indomitable was the reply—‘I care for myself. The more solitary, the more friendless,
the more unsustained I am, the more I will respect myself. I will keep the law given by God;
sanctioned by man. I will hold to the principles received by me when I was sane, and not mad—as
I am now. Laws and principles are not for the times when there is no temptation: they are for such
moments as this, when body and soul rise in mutiny against their rigour; stringent are they;
inviolate they shall be. If at my individual convenience I might break them, what would be their
worth? They have a worth—so I have always believed; and if I cannot believe it now, it is because I
am insane—quite insane: with my veins running fire, and my heart beating faster than I can count
its throbs. Preconceived opinions, foregone determinations, are all I have at this hour to stand by:
there I plant my foot.’
I did. Mr. Rochester, reading my countenance, saw I had done so. His fury was wrought to
the highest: he must yield to it for a moment, whatever followed; he crossed the floor and seized
my arm and grasped my waist. He seemed to devour me with his flaming glance: physically, I felt,
at the moment, powerless as stubble exposed to the draught and glow of a furnace: mentally, I still
possessed my soul, and with it the certainty of ultimate safety. The soul, fortunately, has an
interpreter—often an unconscious, but still a truthful interpreter—in the eye. My eye rose to his;
and while I looked in his fierce face I gave an involuntary sigh; his gripe was painful, and my over-
taxed strength almost exhausted.
‘Never,’ said he, as he ground his teeth, ‘never was anything at once so frail and so
indomitable. A mere reed she feels in my hand!’ (And he shook me with the force of his hold.) ‘I
could bend her with my finger and thumb: and what good would it do if I bent, if I uptore, if I
crushed her? Consider that eye: consider the resolute, wild, free thing looking out of it, defying me,
with more than courage—with a stern triumph. Whatever I do with its cage, I cannot get at it— the
savage, beautiful creature! If I tear, if I rend the slight prison, my outrage will only let the captive
loose. Conqueror I might be of the house; but the inmate would escape to heaven before I could
call myself possessor of its clay dwelling- place. And it is you, spirit—with will and energy, and
virtue and purity—that I want: not alone your brittle frame. Of yourself you could come with soft
flight and nestle against my heart, if you would: seized against your will, you will elude the grasp
like an essence—you will vanish ere I inhale your fragrance. Oh! come, Jane, come!’
As he said this, he released me from his clutch, and only looked at me. The look was far
worse to resist than the frantic strain: only an idiot, however, would have succumbed now. I had
dared and baffled his fury; I must elude his sorrow: I retired to the door.
‘You are going, Jane?’
‘I am going, sir.’
‘You are leaving me?’
‘Yes.’
‘You will not come? You will not be my comforter, my rescuer? My deep love, my wild woe,
my frantic prayer, are all nothing to you?’
What unutterable pathos was in his voice! How hard it was to reiterate firmly, ‘I am going.’
‘Jane!’
‘Mr. Rochester!’
‘Withdraw, then,—I consent; but remember, you leave me here in anguish. Go up to your
own room; think over all I have said, and, Jane, cast a glance on my sufferings—think of me.’
He turned away; he threw himself on his face on the sofa. ‘Oh, Jane! my hope—my love—
my life!’ broke in anguish from his lips. Then came a deep, strong sob.
I had already gained the door; but, reader, I walked back—walked back as determinedly as
I had retreated. I knelt down by him; I turned his face from the cushion to me; I kissed his cheek; I
smoothed his hair with my hand.
‘God bless you, my dear master!’ I said. ‘God keep you from harm and wrong—direct you,
solace you—reward you well for your past kindness to me.’
‘Little Jane’s love would have been my best reward,’ he answered; ‘without it, my heart is
broken. But Jane will give me her love: yes—nobly, generously.’
Up the blood rushed to his face; forth flashed the fire from his eyes; erect he sprang; he
held his arms out; but I evaded the embrace, and at once quitted the room.
‘Farewell!’ was the cry of my heart as I left him. Despair added, ‘Farewell for ever!’
He suggested her that she she should go with him in France ; not as her wife, Jane
understand this as she would be her mistress(maîtresse). Jane employ « I respect myself »; that's
mean that she want to respect her principles,and follow her moraly conscience. Her principles only
have worth if she is able to apply them ; she is faced with a dilemma, her own self respect help her
to follow her moral principles. » There i plant my foot' ; it shows that she take her decision since
this sentence. Physically she is powerless,weak but mentally ; her soul ; she is morally strong .
Nothing can makes her chnage her mind. As long as she remained true to her decision, true to
herself,nothing could force her to stay.
Jane is exhausted to use her force for not to succomb to Rochester grip;she love him but the
betrayal is too deep in her heart, too painful; « I gave an involuntary sigh; his gripe was painful, and my
over-taxed strength almost exhausted »
(It's seems that in this text;he considers that the soul of Jane is in a cage,he can't catch her
it's a metaphor which he can't contain her at Thornfield,he can't keep her with him, she must go to
another place,to heaven it is as if he didn't deserve her for the mistakes he had done ; he lied to
her about Bretah and even wanted to married Jane while his wife is actually at Thornfiled and
alive ; « my outrage will only let the captive loose »).
Decisive moment in Jane's life ,even if she find it hard ro resist,she knows she has to stay
morally strong,even if she can see that Rochester is heartbroken which make it even more difficult.
Her innor conscience helps her making the right choice.
1. Explain Rochester’s feelings and give Jane’s pouint of view. You can use the
following words :
social pressure – yield to passion(céder à la passion) – determined – moral principles

– true love
Rochester is devastated, he realise how he shouldn't have lied to Jane, he beg her to
stay with him, or at Thornfiled at least.He seems convinced that Jane is his true love ,he
don't wanna be apart from her, he really love her.But Jane have moral principles and
with the fact that Rochester just lie at her face , the fact that her wife lived among them ,
the fact that he carry her to the church even though he was already married is too
much ; she was being humiliated because of him. Jane is determined to leave him,
even if she love him as much as him she couldn't stay and act like nothing
happpened.Rochester may have feel social pressure to having to reveal to everyone
that his wife is ill,that he have to leave her because of her illness,maybe the social
conventions didn't allow that, or convey this type of idea, so he would be considered as
strange,ankward.
2. Sum up the situation and insist on Rochester’s view on their relationship.
Rochester is about to loose her lover;he is devasted and yield to passion for Jane to
stay. He considers them as soulmates ; they can't live apart ; they are made/mean for
each other.We fear that Jane will go against her decision,she just thanks hil for what he
has done. It's a heart-rending scene. If she want to keep her self,respect and her
independance mind she have to leave.
3. Comment on Jane’s statement : ‘I care for myself .’ and explain why Charlotte
Brontë used the italics for the personal pronoun.
It's maybe because Jane is teeling herself this ; that's what she is thinking in her head
at the moment ; but she didn't say it out loud.She want to follow her moral principles.
4. Read the text again. Fill in the chart with quotes referring to the following
elements.
Love and passion Self-respect and Temptation and doubts

principles
‘Oh, Jane! my hope— I will hold to the How hard it was to
my love—my life!’ principles received by reiterate firmly, ‘I am
me when I was sane going.’
5. a.Comment on the effect of Jane’s address to the reader in the sentence : ‘ I had
already gained the door : but,reader, I walked back – walked back as determinedly as I
had retreated.’
This passage wants to shows us how much it's hard to leave him, she wants to hold her
principles,but it's hard to resist to him,so she walked back to say him goodbye for the
last time. She adress to us as an excuse,she is sorry to betray her principles even for a
short time,to betray her self esteem,or even to betray the readers that are angry against
Rochester.
STYLE LAB
Personification
A personification is a literary device that attributes human qualities to concepts. The
purpose of personification is to give a deeper meaning or role to concepts.
a. Observe the personified values in Jane’s speech : ‘my very conscience and
reason turned traitors against me, and charged me with crime in resisting him. They
spoke almost as loud as Feeling.’
b. Explain why Charlotte Brontë has decided to personify these éléments in such
a scene.
Focus on … Moral principles and social hierarchy

The Victorian era was marked by high moral principles in various fields, including marriage. Not
only were love relationships between people from two different social backgrounds judged
inappropriate because of a strict social hierarchy, but also, divorce was very rare and therefore
having a relationship with someone, who was already married was seen as morally
reprehensible. Mr Rochester and Jane are faced with the harsh social norms of the time in our
extract.
6. Check your understanding : tick the correct answer.
a. Mr Rochester is devastated. T  F 
b. Jane ignores her principles. T  F 

c. Mr Rochester says how much he loves Jane. T  F 
d. Love and reason are opposed in this passage. T  F 
e. Jane decides to stay at Thornfield. T  F 
Carry on reading until chapter 29 to find out about Jane’s next step in her journey.

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Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë,1847

PART 3 : THORNFIELD HALL

c. What is Adèle’s relationship to Mr Rochester ?

Question : How does Charlotte Brontë present Thornfield Hall ?

Point/detail Evidence Effect or explanation

3. Extract 6 : Read this extract from Chapter 12.

Are you injured, sir?’

A scene from Ann Radcliffe’s

novel : The Mysteries of Udolpho

brooding(sombre,maussade) – daring – helpful – distant – solemn – puzzled – brave –

‘Whose house is it?’

‘Do you know Mr. Rochester?’

‘No, I have never seen him.’

‘He is not resident, then?’

‘Can you tell me where he is?’

‘You have not an umbrella that I can use as a stick?’

astounded(étonné ) – curious – at-ease – grumpy – romantic – unexpected meeting – unusual –

Original text French translation by Mme Changed noticed

Focus on … Gender roles

I should, if I had deliberated, have replied to this question by something conventionally

‘Now, ma’am, am I a fool?’

‘Hope of what, sir?’

‘Of my final re-transformation from India-rubber back to flesh?’

1. Focus on the first three lines.

a. Explain how both characters’ words overstep the traditional master-servant

a. Comment on the effect of the metaphor : ‘I am hard and tough as an India-rubber

b. Turn to the quote, ‘Of my final re-transformation from India-rubber back to

He wonders if he will be sensitive again/ able to feel emotions again.

Focus on the passage from ‘I am willing to amuse you…’ to ‘nothing free-born

Read chapters 15 and 16.

She may have pity for Adele.

Focus on … Supernatural elements and the uncanny.

The uncanny(étrange) is a psychological concept coined by Sigmund Freud also used

This was a demoniac laugh—low, suppressed, and deep—uttered, as it seemed, at

‘Is there a flood?’ he cried.

Sight and sound Anxiety Supernatural elements

Comment on the effect on us readers.

4. Check your understanding. Tick the correct answer.

2. Jane’s inner voice :

- the feelings Jane expresses

- the language she uses to reproach herself.

Get ready to present your answer to your classmates.

‘It is a long way off, sir.’

‘From what, Jane?’

‘From England and from Thornfield: and—‘

‘From YOU, sir.’

‘It is a long way,’ I again said.

I could risk no sort of answer by this time: my heart was still.

‘That I NEVER should, sir: you know—’ Impossible to proceed.

‘Jane, do you hear that nightingale7 singing in the wood? Listen!’

In listening, I sobbed convulsively; for I could repress what I endured no longer; I

1.Couler à flots 2. the sea 3.similar to 4.strange 5.côtes 6.agité 7.rossignol

8.céder 9.mistreated shown

Focus on… Romanticism

Romanticism was a literary movement which emerged in the 18th century.

Ambiguous,unconventional and Upset,passionate and sincere

4. Rephrase and comment on Mr Rochester’s sentences highlighted in the

Focus on … the myth of soulmates

5. Focus on the last paragraph :

3. Focus on Bertha Mason’s portrayal.

4. a. Pick out a sentence showing that :

depersonalised – frustrated – the lunatic in the attic – rebelling - twist

a. An unexpected twist takes place in chapter 26.