Examples Of Religion In Jane Eyre

Throughout the novel, Jane Eyre, Jane encounters a number of characters that bring to light different religious reflections. This shift can be observed through her discussion about religious matters with other individuals. On the onset of the novel, Jane was asked how she could avoid going to Hell. In response to this deep question, instead of turning to religious ideals, Jane simply stated “I must keep in good health, and not die” (Brontë 31). In contrast, later in the novel, Jane turns to prayer in her time of need. Through each of these encounters, Jane seems to be shaped and molded in her concepts of religion, both internally and externally. As characters like Helen Burns and St. John step into Jane’s life, she sees a strong level of

From the moment they met, Jane noticed a difference in Helen. Unlike Jane, Helen did not strike back in a passionate rage as she was unrightfully punished. Instead, she took the punishment that she was being given. The novel further develops Helen’s accepting and hopeful nature while she is lying on her deathbed. Helen didn’t claim to be scared of death, but she embraced it. “I am very happy, Jane; and when you hear that I am dead, you must be sure and not grieve: there is nothing to grieve about... my mind is at rest… By dying young, I shall escape great sufferings. I had not qualities or talents to make my way very well in the world: I should have been continually at fault” (Brontë 83). Through this quote, the reader can begin to comprehend the bodage that surrounded Helen Burns. Although she held true to her hope in eternity, Helen forgets how to truly live and enjoy life for all that it is worth.. Thus, the novel reveals the hope that Helen expressed towards life through her religion on the top layer, but when the reader searches deeper, they can begin to comprehend the true affects religion held over Helen. She was chained by her good nature and did not truly experience the good in life. While Helen could have stood up for herself, as Jane had, she sat in compliance to the pain she endured. Thus, Helen’s eternal hope led her through a life of pain and

Similarly to Helen and St. John, Jane’s convictions hold her back, initially, from a life of happiness. Jane’s desire to be with Mr. Rochester was truly held back by her subtle religious values. She knew that since Rochester was married, it would be unethical to marry him. However, the novel reveals a deep struggle between her true passion and her beliefs. Throughout the entire novel, Jane deals deeply with these issues. Jane even goes as far as stating “He stood between me and every thought of religion, as an eclipse intervenes between man and the broad sun. I could not, in those days, see God for his creature: of whom I had made an idol” (Brontë 234). In addition to her marriage struggle, during Jane’s time in poverty, she seems to cling back to these religious beliefs as a source of hope. She claims that this was God’s divine plan for her life and uses these actions to push her forward in life. In addition to believing that this was God’s divine plan for her life, Jane “prayed in [her] way- a different way to St John's, but effective in its own fashion” (Brontë 358). By turning to prayer, Jane reveals a dependence on religious values and the hope that it provides in her situation. Thus, Jane discovers similar religious effects as the other characters. Her religious beliefs provide her with both a sense of hope for life as well as a sense of captivity and struggle to achieve her happy