Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

[Chitra11]

Child neglect, near death, a dash of magical realism, the power of love, the powerlessness of the poor, sexual rivalry, mystery, madness and so much more.
This novel is as powerful as ever. But is it really a love story, given Mr. Rochester’s tendencies, or is it a life story? The uncertainty is what makes it such a good book. Also masterfully written is the tension between it being very Victorian in some obvious ways, and yet controversially modern in others: An immoral hero and a fiercely independent and assertive heroine, and some very unpleasant stereotypical rich women.
Some very particular reasons for my appreciation for this book:-
1) Jane is no beauty. This is not a Snow White moment where the focus is mostly on what a pretty face the heroine has. Jane’s beauty is all on the inside. This is a very courageous and unconventional aspect and hence, kudos to Charlotte!
2) Rochester is not gorgeous. When’s the last time you read a novel where neither the hero or the heroine was good-looking?
3) Great dialogue! Mr. Rochester keeps making sarcastic comments to Jane all the time. Jane sasses him right back.
4) This is a romance of mind and heart, not just ‘How hot he is! Just looking at him makes me squirm with pleasure.’
5) Jane teaches us that we have great power to take control of our life and decide our own destiny rather than sulk during misfortunes.
6) Jane Eyre empowered women, written at a time when in so many ways we were considered a lowly gender.

3.2 Stars :- Taking off some points just because of that magical element put in the story which didn’t really fit.
Highly Recommended, specially for literature and Victorian writing fans!