Jane Eyre - Chapters 11-17 - Lowood and Thornfield (Primary and Secondary Blog Entries)

2/19/2015

"All governesses have a tale of woe. What is yours?"

1. What is it about Mr. Rochester that attracts Jane when she plainly states that she doesn't find him handsome when he asks her, “Do you find me handsome?” (pg. 149)? How does Jane’s view that “beauty is of little consequence” (pg 149) affect Mr. Rochester? What is it about their personalities that attract them to each other as well as the readers?
"I've never mistaken formality for insolence, sir. One I rather like. The other, nothing freeborn should ever submit to."2. How has their relationship between Jane and Mr. Rochester change when he told her that she “did not strike delight to my very inmost heart for nothing”? How will Jane do Mr.Rochester some “good in some way”? What is it that he’s hoping she will give him?

In your Primary Blog Entry, you should respond to the two questions above in a single entry. Your Secondary Blog Entry should respond to two of your colleagues' entries that are especially interesting to you.

Part One Expectations (respond to the prompt above): 200-250 words, 2 quotes from the novel, minimal errors in grammar and usage, thoughtful and thorough writing. Please use the assigned "pen name" given to you in class PLEASE FINISH BY FRIDAY NIGHT!

Part Two Expectations (read everyone's first responses, select two that interest you, and respond to their ideas): 100-150 words EACH, minimal errors in grammar and usage, thoughtful and thorough writing. Please use the assigned "pen name" given to you in class. FINISH BY SUNDAY NIGHT!

"I've never mistaken formality for insolence, sir. One I rather like. The other, nothing freeborn should ever submit to."

2/19/2015 07:31:49 am

In chapter 14 when Jane and Adèle once again meet Mr. Rochester, he presents Adèle with a gift, and with Adèle distracted he begins to converse with Jane in a unusually loquacious manner. When he asks if she found him attractive she said no, but yet there was something that attracted her to him that wasn’t a physical attribute. In the quote “I am sure most people would have thought him an ugly man…..faith in confidence” (Bronte 151) Jane states that physically Mr. Rochester is not attractive but his attitude, pride, and the way he makes himself so much unlike his external appearance gives one a feeling of similarity and faith with him. Perhaps this is what attracts her to him. Another interesting part of the conversation was when Jane commented on how beauty was of little importance, this affected Mr. Rochester in that he started commenting on how she constantly makes insulting remarks to him that are masked through wordplay that would make her seem as if she was trying to be sincere with him. He compared this to the action of her stealthy sticking a penknife into him “And so, under the pretense of ….. under my ear” (Bronte 149-150) he seemed very intrigued by this. When looking at Both Jane and Mr. Rochester one can say that both don’t rely on their outward appearances to impress people but the way they act and speak to do so. Jane always mentions how plain she looks, especially compared to Blanche Ingram and she says that even Rochester isn’t one for looks, but yet she stands out for the way she can speak almost in an aristocratic manner making herself seem better than what she is physically while Rochester has this personality that makes him seem better than what he actually looks like. In this sense the two are one in the same and thus attract each other.

2/21/2015 01:07:12 pm

That always stood out to me to, how Jane comments on how she is rather plain looking, yet she makes a bold statement by just being her. I like your last sentence on how Mr. Rochester and Jane are the same and that is why they are attracted to one another. As cliche as it seems, it reminds me of the saying, "Looks aren't everything" and "Beauty is only skin deep." Instantly when she sees him she does not have that "love at first sight" moment but as their relationship progresses and they actually hold conversations it is as if they are revealing more and more about one another, to each other. It even says a lot about Jane's character, how she can admit with no hesitation that the man she is falling for is not physically appealing but mentally makes her wonder all the time about who his true self is.

2/21/2015 03:22:22 pm

I agree, fictional relationships are lot more interesting if they don’t just focus on superficial aspects but on personality. This makes the people seem more immersive and thorough, instead of larger-than-life characters that are really just flat and empty. They are also stronger characters if they are not beautiful but can own it and still be attractive. Brontë also does a very good job with her diction throughout their conversation to convey a sense of sexual tension and suppressed romance. The reader knows that both characters are in love with each other and we want them to admit it but they just won’t, just not yet. Overall this was a fascinating scene to extrapolate.

2/22/2015 07:10:07 am

I agree with you that the reason Jane and Mr. Rochester are attracted to each other is because of their personality and how they carry themselves. The way that Jane talks makes up for her lacking or rather plain appearance. I like how you brought up the point that Jane insulted Mr. Rochester, but behind these insults she's really flirting with him. It reminds me of how in elementary school when a boy or girl was mean to you it meant that they like you. Also readers can tell that they sincerely like each other and it's not just lust since they base their affection for each other off of conversation.

2/22/2015 01:52:26 pm

I agree with what you said, although I didn’t think about how their appearances were similar as well. I mainly focused in on how they’re attitude and personality was very similar to one another But now that you mention they’re appearances, I completely agree with you. One thing I wondered while understanding their similar personality was whether or not they would eventually become in conflict with another, being that they are “one in the same.” Through my own personal experience it sometimes occur that two people who are exactly the same tend be more inclined to arguments being that they have the same type of personality.

2/19/2015 01:10:27 pm

Jane finds Mr. Rochester’s way of composing himself to be attractive rather than physical feature. How Mr. Rochester acts is very refreshing to her since for most of her life, the importance of appearance was pushed at Jane. So, by Mr. Rochester “[rising] from his chair and …leaning his arm on the marble mantel-piece” it brought out how he goes against the status quote resulting in Jane find him interesting (151).
Jane’s remark on how “beauty is of little consequence” emphasizes how different she truly is from those who follow society’s rules. One rule revolves around the importance of appearance, like stated before, and how each gender has certain guidelines to follow. A woman, during this time period, would typically be more consider on her own appearance compared to a male. By Jane stating how it beauty should not be priority, it highlights how isolated she is with everyone else (in society).
When Jane states this remark, “you would perhaps think me rude if I inquired, in return, whether you are a philanthropist” it leads to Mr. Rochester exploding and exposing her of her ways; and how she indirectly mocks him when trying to appeal to him at the same time (150). To add on, his reaction seems a little dramatic thus hinting that he may be attractive to her.
Both characters do not dependent on physical features, but instead look at other elements of an individual. Take for example, Jane becomes attractive to Mr. Rochester due to his attitude and composure rather than appearance; and Mr. Rochester is able to catch Jane and her play at words as she tries to explain herself.

2/22/2015 04:22:11 am

I totally agree with you. Their conversation highlights what society was like during that time period. They both notice each other's flaws and relate to that. They both do not have the best appearances, but they have personalities that ultimately attract people to them. Appearance is highlighted throughout this whole novel and the fact that Mr. Rochester and Jane are shown as to not care about appearances and aren't that attractive, makes a statement that love can be found even if you don't "have the right appearance". I find it interesting how they are able to find a connection when all their life they have seemed to not fit into society. I think this conversation reassures Jane that looks aren't everything.

2/22/2015 02:22:50 pm

I agree Jane certainty breaks all the rules and guidelines that were expected of her ,the most important of thoes guidelines was to be graceful and beautiful. But Jane is a abrubt, speaks her mind and is not what this time period would call beautiful. But it's true they look beyond what's expected by the society and look deeper into one another's heart and again looks beyond the physical appearance, that's what I love they truly like who they are not just what they look like!

2/19/2015 01:13:34 pm

One night after dinner, Mr. Rochester calls for Jane and has a conversation with her. In his conversation he brings up the question if he is handsome or not. Jane responded abruptly by saying no without thinking. Even though she says that he isn’t handsome, she still becomes attracted to him. She becomes attracted to his personality that she describes as “yet there was so much unconscious pride in his port; so much ease in his demeanor; such a look of complete indifference to his own external appearance…in looking at him, one inevitable shared the indifference; and even, in a blind, imperfect sense, put faith in the confidence” (Bronte 151). She describes his personality in a tone that points to her feeling a connection to him suggesting that these particular qualities is what is making her become attracted to him. Her viewing Mr. Rochester on more of his personality than his appearance takes into account why Jane believes “beauty is of little consequence” (Bronte 149). Her reply frustrates Mr. Rochester, but it seems to lead him to being attracted to her.
Jane and Mr. Rochester are both quite similar. They both don’t seem to have “perfect” physical appearances, but the way they speak and hold themselves make them both appear better than they actually are. These similarities seem to be what ultimately drive Jane and Mr. Rochester to be attracted to each other. Mr. Rochester shows interest in Jane when he says why he called for her; “you, I am persuaded, can suit me if you will...It would please me now to draw you out—to learn more of you—therefore speak.” (Bronte 151) Mr. Rochester wanting to get to know Jane better shows that he wants to see if they have a connection. He asked her if he was handsome for a reason, and I believe the reason was to see what type of bond him and Jane will have.

2/21/2015 01:16:51 pm

When I read this quote while reading I was instantly fixed on the "It would please me now to draw you out—to learn more of you" part because this one statement says so much about the infatuation Mr. Rochester has for Jane. Although at times he hints at being sexually attractive to her, he states that he wants to learn more of her, I could almost hear him saying, "I want to get inside your head." I definitely agree about the connection between these two, it's just instead of "do we have a connection" I think it is more of "what kind of connection do we have" because something is keeping these two together, even when they're not physically together she is always thinking of him, they just haven't discovered it yet.

2/22/2015 02:02:23 pm

I agree that Jane admires Mr. Rochester’s pride and intellect, but I also believe that her attraction is largely due to the fact he doesn’t treat Jane like any other master would. By inquiring about Jane’s feelings towards him and towards other topics, Jane is allowed to voice her opinions, something that she never had before. I also agree that their ways of conduct and speech reveal more about themselves than their appearances. Maybe this is why Jane was unable to relate anyone at all before. The Reeds used their wealth to act like they are better than Jane, but Mr. Rochester makes it clear that he doesn’t make his wealth define him. This is definitely what Jane is attracted, the fact that Mr. Rochester remains genuine despite his wealth.

2/22/2015 02:06:33 pm

I agree that Mr. Rochester asked her this question for a reason, but I don't think it was to see what kind of bond they would have. I believed that he asked her that to see who she really is and how she views things. It was his way of testing her to see if she would answer the way any other female would. It shows him how she is as a person and I believe that this gives us an insight oh how their relationships dynmic will be throughout the novel.

2/19/2015 01:56:08 pm

Jane states that she is sure “most people would have thought of him as an ugly man; yet there was so much unconscious pride in his port; so much ease in his demeanor; such a look of complete indifference to his own external appearance; so haughty a reliance on power of other qualities intrinsic or adventitious, to atone for the lack of mere personal attractiveness…” (Bronte 149). She admits to him being not that attractive, but his demeanor makes up for his unattractiveness. When she says, “beauty is of little consequence,” she doesn’t worry about one’s physical appearance. She is more attracted to the way he holds himself and his confidence. Mr. Rochester, also, seems to care little about the way he looks, which means he doesn’t care about other people’s appearance.
The fact that they talk comfortably to each other makes the chemistry between them greater. Even though he is her superior, Jane states that she “should never mistake informality for insolence…” (Bronte 153). This shows that despite them being from separate classes, she speaks to him as if they were equals. She treats him in a way that she is no better than him, yet he is no better than her, and being friendly should not be considered disrespectful.

2/21/2015 11:44:11 am

I definitely agree that Jane truly does like Mr. Rochester for his demeanor rather than his looks. Also, the fact that she isn’t only attracted to his physical appearance makes their relationship even more powerful. They obviously connect on a personal level that is beyond appearances. Bronte’s decision to choose characters from different social classes who aren’t very attractive but share each other’s thoughts and opinions makes this story relatable. It also separates itself from other pieces of literature that only rely on lust. I also liked the way you explained the insolence quote. They do speak to one another as equals which I think makes their relationship all the more interesting. There is no belittling from Mr. Rochester or sense of bashfulness from Jane, but brutal honesty (not including the fire) which I enjoy.

2/22/2015 07:48:14 am

I agree that neither of them care about looks. Although Jane does say Mr. Rochester is ugly, however beauty doesn't define one's personality. For Jane looks doesn't matter because she herself is plain looking and I believe Mr. Rochester feels the same way. They attract each other because they are very similiar despite coming from different social classes. I didn't think about their differences in social classes until I read this comment. I like how you brought up the fact that Jane sees Mr. Rochester as her equal. I would have thought it would have been awkward for them to flirt and fancy each other. It reminds me of those fairy tales where a girl, who comes from a poor family, falls in love with a wealthy man. Although it is cliche, this novel is still relatable because of the characters. I like how Jane blurrs the lines of social class between her and Mr. Rochester. She feels that social class shouldn't matter or define a person. I think they match each other very well. It will be interesting to see if they'll be a couple or see how far their relationship will go.

2/22/2015 10:56:48 am

I agree with you that Jane is much more attracted to Mr. Rochesters demeanor rather than his physical appearance. I liked how you pointed out the fact that they treat each other as equals. Although they come from different social classes they have similar mentalities with the same theights and opinions. Because of this it makes their conversations more fluid and they really do feel comfortable with each other.

2/22/2015 12:16:07 pm

The idea of both Rochester and Jane being of different social classes is extremely important. However, they both seem to be able to momentarily overlook that, when they converse. They treat each other as equals due to the admission of their flaws, and their shared belief that beauty isn’t that important. This admission as well goes against the norm for society at that time, since beauty, at least for women, was of the utmost importance. Because they are both considered undesirable due to their looks, they are attracted to each other’s personality. Rochester enjoys Jane’s somewhat abrupt and perhaps brash personality, since he probably sees a little bit of himself in the way she acts. Jane enjoys that he is a unique character with an air of mystery since he is usually aloof.

2/22/2015 02:11:01 pm

I like to comment that I believe since all her life she has been told she was not good enough or pretty enough she became more connected to Mr.Rochester because his life he has been told he as well wasnot the most handsome. They have found eachother falling deeply for one another for what they feel, how they challenge one another. And they for sure as you said have this comfortable way with one another that no one could really understand.

2/22/2015 02:26:19 pm

Jane definitely is attracted to mr. Rochester's ability to converse with her rather than his looks.The way Mr. Rochester carries himself also attracts Jane. Mr. Rochester speaks to Jane as if she is of the same class as himself and treats his other employees with compassion and understanding. I completely agree that Mr. Rochester is also attracted to Jane purely because she can hold an intellectual conversation with him and doesn't really judge him for his views/morals. Mr. Rochester doesn't focus on the fact that Jane is plain because he himself isn't the best looking person/ doesn't take the best care of himself. Jane is aware that many people may see Mr. Rochester as an ugly man but she really doesn't care and that doesn't change her feelings for him. Their connection is initially sparked in deep conversation so it is not a surprise what their feelings are at this point.

2/19/2015 02:07:06 pm

Although answering no without hesitation to Mr. Rochester's question on if Jane finds him attractive, what eventurally causes her to fall for him is the way he portrays himself. He carries himself with a bit of confidence and although like Jane, while he does have a blurry past filled with not so happy moments, he seems to put on a show that he is content with life. He is taken back by Jane's views. He agrees with her views but was not expecting her to admit them with such openness, fearlessly sharing her opinions. When Mr. Rochster says that Jane did not strike delight to his inmost heart for nothing, it changes their relationship in the fact that he is telling her that it is mutual. The affection is two-sided. He even comments on how he has observed her. " You laugh rarely; but you can laugh very merrily; believe me, you are not naturally austere, anymore than I am naturally vicious (Bronte 158). He strikes something in her that no one ever has before, he makes her feel something that isn't pain, or yearning to get away, Although he is not what she at first sight was intrigued with, her sudden feelings show that soon she will make a bigger impact on him. "My master's colorless, olive face, massive brow..........were not all beautiful......but they were more than beautiful to me; they were full of an interest (Bronte 200).

2/19/2015 02:12:10 pm

In the scene where Mr. Rochester bluntly asks Jane if she finds him attractive, she answers “No, sir” (Bronte 149). This abrupt answer immediately leads me to believe that she does indeed find him attractive and that her answer reflects the fact that she was caught off guard. I believe that Mr. Rochester’s air and confidence appeals to Jane. He knows what he wants and Jane seems to have an interest in the way he asserts his power. Overall, I believe Miss. Eyre appreciates his bold, decisive personality even though he can come across as “moody” or “harsh”. Jane’s view that “beauty is of little consequence” affects Mr. Rochester because he starts to poke fun at her comment and requests the faults of which she sees in him “Go on; what fault do you find in me…” (Bronte 150). Jane seems to have rattled his confidence because she didn’t reply with the expected, polite answer of “yes”. I believe the personalities of both Jane and Mr. Rochester are what attracts them to one another, as well as the audience. They both appear to be outspoken individuals who express their opinions; this similarity is what I believe makes them out to be a nice pairing. Also, they both seem uninhibited when together which immediately makes me believe they’re quite comfortable with one another. When Mr. Rochester tells Jane that she “did not strike delight to my very inmost heart for nothing” I believe he is acknowledging that he knew he liked her for some reason. After Jane has rescued Mr. Rochester from the fire, he feels indebted to her and also conveys a friendlier demeanor towards Miss. Eyre “You have saved my life…and you walk past me as if we were mutual strangers! At last shake hands…” (Bronte 173). I can see that a more personal relationship may start to develop and that “the good” Mr. Rochester believes Jane could provide him, is a possible relationship or partnership.

2/19/2015 02:41:57 pm

When Mr. Rochester asks Jane, “Do you find me handsome”, Jane responds by saying that she doesn’t find him physically attractive. Instead she is attracted to his confidence and intellect. Jane believes that beauty is of little importance. This is because she had been around many beautiful upper-class people whose intellect and logical intuition doesn’t match their physical appearance. Jane recognizes that beauty isn’t what makes a person admirable. She admires the fact that Mr. Rochester is able to think logically and remove himself from the expectation of certain social class. Jane is also attracted to Mr. Rochester because he doesn’t consider her as a servant below himself; in his eyes Jane is of equal standard and possible above him. The transition from the horrors of the Reed family and her school has made it possible for her to appreciate the kindness of Mr. Rochester. On page 151 Mr. Rochester told Jane to “Speak… [On] Whatever you like. I leave both the choice of subject and the manner of treating it entirely to yourself”. This short dialogue is essentially the first time that Jane is offered freedom of speech, and it creates an attachment for her to Mr. Rochester because this is the first time she is able to openly express her beliefs. Jane is finally able to establish a likeminded relationship with someone who respects and cares for her. Even though she and Helen had a close relationship, Jane was unable to see eye to eye with her friend because Helen’s religious beliefs were often controversial with her own beliefs.

2/19/2015 02:45:05 pm

I didn't mean to leave this as a reply. I meant to post it as a primary blog entry.

2/22/2015 02:35:18 pm

I really don't think Jane thinks he's attractive in the physical sense, I think she likes the way he carries himself and how he treats other...as well as how he treats her. She likes talking to him, she finds him intriguing. She shows her feelings with her hidden compliments in her brash words towards him. She likes that he can hold his own with her when discussing anything. She likes a lot about him, but I wouldn't say his looks.

2/22/2015 02:11:12 pm

I don't think that Jane said no to hide her true feelings. She answered out of honesty. He wouldn't be considered handsom by anyone. What attracts her to him is the fact that they are so much a like. They both know what it is to not fit into the standars society sets. Along with being able to relate to each other they are equals intellectually. They can keep up together in conversations and don't have to use kinder words. Beauty doesn't matter to Jane, but values and knowledge do.

2/19/2015 02:50:48 pm

By the reading the interactions between Jane and Mr. Rochester, it is now starting to become obvious of their interest for each other. “You examine me, Miss. Eyre…No, sir” (Bronte 149). As I read this, what I began to think of was Jane just admiring Mr. Rochester too much to even think about what she responded saying. To Jane, Mr. Rochester was much different than the other male figures she dealt with before, like her cousin. “He would sometimes pass me haughtily…I had nothing to do with their alterations” (Bronte 146). Although Mr. Rochester was a very serious man with many mood swings, Jane felt much at ease with him because she knew that he wouldn’t strike at her or punish her out of his own frustration. Jane must also find Mr. Rochester attractive because of his background story. “When I was as old as you…and now I flatter myself I am hard and tough as an India-rubberball” (Bronte 150). Mr. Rochester didn’t simple grow up to be as fortunate as he is now, it took him a while to find his moment and I feel like Jane admires that because to her it shows how hard Mr. Rochester worked to gain success as well as maintain. As for Mr. Rochester I feel as though he is attracted to Jane because of her honesty. If he were ask any other female if they thought he was handsome, they would all instantly respond with a yes, but not Jane.

2/21/2015 12:13:14 pm

I like the idea you brought up about Jane liking or maybe even admiring the way Mr. Rochester earned his fortune. It didn’t initially occur to me that she may respect the fact that he had to work for his success. This could then lead to a partial explanation of why Jane finds Mr. Rochester to be so appealing. They share the similarity of not being coddled or spoiled in childhood, but having to earn what they received in adulthood. Through this way of looking at it, there’s an appeal to ethos and the common bond is their struggle for a better position. I also agree with you about Mr. Rochester liking Jane’s honesty. She is able to make herself unique by staying true to herself and not worshipping the ground that every well off individual walks on.

2/22/2015 01:24:58 pm

I agree with your statement, Jane definitely empathize with Mr. Rochester because they are both from an underprivileged background. As you stated, Mr. Rochester worked his way up to the position where he is at. Jane’s attraction to Mr. Rochester is sprung from the success that he had throughout his life. His success gives her hope that despite her difficult past life, she can also be successful. Also, Mr. Rochester have defied the expectations of this particular society for he has risen up from the upper class. So, maybe Jane is also attracted because she believes that she can defy what society expects her as a woman to think, say, and act.

2/19/2015 03:08:00 pm

Jane Eyre isn’t attracted by Mr. Rochester’s appearance, as she clearly and abruptly states, possibly due to the fact that she herself wouldn’t be considered beautiful. She even states before she knew who he was that if he had been handsome, she wouldn’t have approached him. “I had a theoretical reverence and homage for beauty, elegance… 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 lightening, or anything else that is bright but antipathetic” (Bronte 128). I think that his more homely appearance is what allows Jane to become closer to him and interact, which leads her to become even more attracted to him due to his enigmatic personality. This probably pleases her instinctively curious nature. Also, she might she a kindred spirit, not beautiful in appearance but of character. “…so haughty a reliance on the power of other qualities, intrinsic or adventitious, to atone for the lack of mere personal attractiveness, that, in looking at him, one inevitably shared the indifference; and even, in a bind, imperfect sense, put faith in confidence” (Bronte 151). Mr. Rochester, seems to find Jane appealing in the same way. She’s something new to him, and although Jane’s not the prettiest, her unfamiliarity is attractive and he seems to find joy in her mystery and wants to “draw you out—to learn more of you—“ (Bronte 151).

2/22/2015 12:12:30 pm

I agree, they might not be the most attractive people, but they are attracted to each other's personality. Most upper class people Jane has met were haughty, but Mr. Rochester feels comfortable with acting like himself and Jane likes that about him. She can then feel comfortable with being honest and being herself around him, which would be different if she had met an attractive man. Perhaps Mr. Rochester is curious about her because she is a governess and relationships are forbidden.

2/19/2015 03:20:09 pm

Adele and Jane Eyre get invited to talk with Mr. Rochester after dinner. Mr. Rochester asks her if he’s handsome. Jane quickly says no, but takes it back soon after. Mr. Rochester wonders what his flaws are. Jane basically says that even though he isn’t the most handsome person she’s seen, there’s something about him that makes up for his physical attributes. “ yet there was so much unconscious pride in his port, so much ease in his demeanor; such a look of complete indifference to his own external appearance; so haughty a reliance on the power of other qualities, intrinsic or adventitious, to atone for the lack of mere personal attractiveness (Bronte 151). I think it’s her honesty and straight-forwardness that makes Mr. Rochester attracted to Jane. He sees how she speaks with such poise and elegance, but yet speaks the truth. He realizes that he can actually have an intelligent conversation with her. He insists on chatting in depth about many topics. They both find each other not extremely attractive, but there’s something about each other like how they carry themselves that makes up for their lacking beauty. It seems that they both have strong personalities. They both find each other weird or strange, “I thought to myself Mr. Rochester is peculiar” (Bronte 153). I think Jane wasn’t expecting to have feelings for Mr. Rochester, but as their conversation delves deeper she can’t help but feel attracted to him. The same goes for him too.

2/21/2015 11:15:29 am

I agree with completely #5 I also saw in the reading what you have described in your entry. It is clear that they both find themselves unattractive but yet both find a sort of attraction to each other through the way they act and speak. I also agree with how you said Jane’s manner of speaking to Rochester leveled them both out, making her his equal. I think that little detail later on will help “save” Rochester with whatever is eating away at his soul, or so to speak. Rochester is being held back by something, something that won’t allow him to enjoy the pleasures of life. Whatever it is I think that Jane will be his guide to finally rid this burden from his life and make him happy in the end.

2/22/2015 04:51:47 am

I like how you brought up the idea of Jane's honesty being what Mr. Rochester is attracted to. I totally agree with this because I feel that honesty in that time period was hard to come by. Mr. Rochester was surprised that Jane was straight forward to him even though it was looked down upon for woman to do that. Mr. Rochester seems to admire this quality about her which makes him attracted to her. I also agree with #20 response to your prompt. I agree that the way they speak and their unattractiveness make them both equal. In this society, that seems hard to come by and both Mr. Rochester and Jane like the fact that they aren't the "norm" of society.

2/22/2015 12:24:10 pm

I completely agree with the fact that Mr. Rochester is attracted to Jane’s honesty. It seems even more obvious when he explains his relationship with Adele’s mother Celine. Celine used to tell him that she like his athletic physique, yet when he caught her in a very compromising position with the French courtesan, she practically made fun of him and his appearance which she considered “deformities.” He obviously felt betrayed that she cheated but also lied about his own attractiveness. The fact that Jane was honest about her lack of physical attraction probably both appease and attracted him to her. His past experience may have made him skeptical and he feels as though he may be able to trust her and therefore form a stable relationship or at the very least conversation.

2/19/2015 04:27:51 pm

Jane and Mr. Rochester meet and Mr. Rochester immediately showed an interest in Jane. When he speaks to her he’s so direct and frank and this really cuts through the standard procedures for social the classes of the time. Jane is a simple women who wears plain clothes and behaves modestly. There was almost this cosmic connection from before they even met. Jane spoke of how she wandered the halls restlessly “Women are supposed to be very calm generally: but women feel just as men feel; they need exercise for their faculties, and a field for their efforts as much as their brothers do; they suffer from too rigid a restraint, too absolute a stagnation” (chap.12) those days without a master for the house the rooms of the estate were a prison, she felt confined then when he arrives he breathes life into the house and the baron halls. Jane was invigorated with this energy and then meets Mr. Worchester herself and he’s not like other high society men. They go back and forth in conversation too quickly for Mrs. Fairfax it’s as if they are on a different level together unaffected by social class. This interaction is altered “I saw it in your eyes when I first beheld you: their expression and smile did not"--(again he stopped)--"did not" (he proceeded hastily) "strike delight to my very inmost heart so for nothing.”(Chapter 15) Mr. Rochester granted is a bit frantic given there was just a fire that could have seriously hurt him but once he realizes what actually happened his attitude shifts as his pasts bubble up.

2/21/2015 03:55:33 pm

It is interesting that you pointed out how a relationship like this would never happen in Victorian England, especially not between members of different social classes, like Jane and Mr. Rochester are. Even more, governesses had a hard time getting married because the men they met were always their superiors. Jane left a household where she was regarded as low class—Gateshead—only to enter another house—Thornfield—where she still has relatively the same social stature. And yet, Mr. Rochester does not care and still is attracted to Jane solely on her personality, making the relationship even more interesting, showing that love has no bounds.

2/22/2015 01:04:47 pm

Going off of what #10 stated about how a “relationship like this would never happen in Victorian England”, it made me truly think about how to describe Jane and Mr. Rochester’s relationship. The first word that popped into my head was taboo. The fact that someone of class is allowing a peasant to talk to him so freely just emphasizes how unusual their relationship is. Now, without reading passed chapter 17, based on how their relationship is a taboo; I predict someone or something coming in between them. It might be Jane’s aunt coming back to strip her from a good future or even Mr. Rochester past meeting the present. Note, since we do not necessary know Mr. Rochester secret is about his past; then we assume it is something bad.

2/20/2015 01:26:48 pm

Jane gets new job at the Thornfeild where she goes to clean the home. When Jane found out by Ms. Fairfax that the owner of the residence was Mr. Rochester , Jane became quickly attached to him before even meeting him "Mr. Rochester!" I exclaimed (pg111). Who is he?" . But I feel as though when the two began to know more about one another there was a strong sexual tension between the two. This tension is built by there endless need to challenge one another " and you felt self-satisfied with the result of your ardent labors!", "Far from it. I tormented by the contrast between...to realize"(143). I find that Jane having an opinion on anything is brave because she is a governess and a governess is not supposed to have much of an opinion about anything but the two of them in the same room they cant help the witty banter. But that banter and challenging one another is what attacks them to each other. The part that I loved was when Mr. Rochester said "did not strike delight to my very inmost heart for nothing" Jane is only 18 and Mr. Rochester is old enough to be her father and he's challenging her integrity, and trying to inappropriate relations with her. The interesting thing about Jane is that Mr. Rochester expected her to fall in his little trap but although Jane is an abrupt person she has a strong moral compass. Jane is holding a strong front against Mr. Rochester but I just wonder how long that's going to last!

2/22/2015 12:18:19 pm

That's interesting, I thought there might have been some sexual tension into their conversation. Their relationship seems to be compatible because they lack in physical attractiveness, but make up for it with similar personalities. Jane, being open and honest around her superior makes her come off as more daring and bold to Mr. Rochester because she is stepping a little out of her boundaries. Mr. Rochester is probably fascinated by her because she is a governess and such relations are forbidden due to different social classes. This book took place around the time of the Victorian Era and sexuality was prevalently repressed, so people could have expressed themselves through flirtation while conversing.

2/22/2015 12:54:46 pm

"Jane having an opinion on anything is brave"
This statement basically sums up who Jane; she is the opposite of what is expected during her time period. A female in this era would typically have characteristics that revolved around being submissive and obedient; however, Jane displays traits of a “man”. She naturally has a quick tongue that mocks those around her as she continues on in life. How this related to a man is due her amount of freedom that she gives herself. The fact that at the age of 18, she is not married or dare I say being pressured to marry emphasizes how backwards Jane is. Now going back to the original statement on how brave Jane is, not only highlights her strengthens, but also effectively display how the author made Jane; a male in a women’s body.

2/20/2015 02:11:45 pm

I believe that what attracts Jane to Mr. Rochester is the fact that he doesn't fit into society's definition of normal either. We can see how he treats Adele and talks to everyone bluntly without apology how different he is. He doesn't waste his time trying to please other, it's almost like he lives in a different world where the rules are different. He says at this scene “ … I have forbidden Adele to talk to me about her presents, and she is bursting with repletion”(148). This shows how he doesn't even bother to pretend to be interested in Adele’s enjoyment of a toy. Most adults would at least pretend to be interested but he doesn't. I believe this calls to Jane because she also doesn't fit into society's role of a woman. She also lives in a different world. We can see how her and Mr. Rochester connect when they first have a real conversation. The maid doesn't understand what they are talking about. It's almost as if they live in a world together that they only understand. When they first meet for tea they talk about fairies and Mrs. Fair fax can't keep up with them. It says “Mrs. Fair fax had dropped her knitting, and with a raised eyebrows seemed wondering what sort of talk this was”(139).

2/22/2015 10:51:21 am

I agree with your statement about how neither of them necessarily fit into their own roles in society. I believe that this is because of their past. They both had such a difficult childhood that fitting into the norm is very difficult for them. I also believe this is why Jane finds Mr. Rochester attractive. They share the same thing in common, they didn't grow up in the lust and riches. Mr. Rochesters bluntness is something else that could possibly attract Jane to him. He's always honest with people and doesn't hide the truth, much like Jane did when she said no to him when he asked her if he was handsome.

2/20/2015 03:25:03 pm

When Mr. Rochester asks Jane if she finds him attractive, she quickly answers with a no. Although Jane does not find him physically attractive, she still eventually falls for him. It is in the way that he carries himself that touches Jane’s heart. Jane describes that “in that attitude his shape was seen plainly, as well as his face, his unusual breadth of chest disproportionate almost to his length of limb” (Brontë 151), clearly stating how Mr. Rochester is actually quite ugly. However, Jane finds many aspects of his personality to be so alluring, such as his “unconscious pride in his port; so much ease with his demeanor; such a look of complete indifference to his external appearance” (Brontë 151), and many others, that his visible features are made obsolete. Jane does not focus on appearance, but enjoys his attitude and how he can own his appearance and work with what he has. Jane herself is just like this. She is not particularly attractive to Mr. Rochester, but the way she carries herself and speaks causes him to fall in love with her. Readers love this because it shows that the two go beyond superficial qualities and instead focus on personality traits. When Mrs. Rochester tells Jane that she “did not strike delight to my very inmost heart for nothing,” he shows that he is opening up and wants to connect with her, to see where the relationship goes. Jane has touched his heart the way no one else ever has, and will soon do something to change his life.

2/21/2015 11:30:49 am

I agree with you, there is an attraction between the both of them that is indeed not superficial, but is this kind of attraction possible in the real world? Do you believe that with this relationship between Rochester and Jane that Bronte was trying to make a statement about society then? Or is she recalling a past experience she had or was having at the time she wrote this book? I also agree with you when you say that Jane will do something to change Rochester’s life for the better. What do you think Jane will change about Rochester’s life?

7th

2/20/2015 03:59:00 pm

Jane admires how Mr. Rochester answers to her wit with that of his own, rather then her regular dose of apathy. Her view that “beauty is of little consequence” upsets him like a back stab, as he regards himself well kept over other men. Yet her defined “way of the nun” intrigues him to find out more about her. They supplement each other in a battle of words, though liquid courage seems to make him ramble a bit. “He is very changeful and abrupt” (Bronte 144), which complements her brashness and quick tongue. Yet they get along as he begins sees her not a lowly servant (but paid), nor a regular school-girl, but as an adult. “I feel your benefits no burden, Jane" (Bronte 173). This goes along with her view that all are equal but have different tastes. As he reveals that she struck his heart, he comes to regard her as a genius. He hopes Jane can supply his lack of peace of mind, as they can both relate to family issues.

2/20/2015 05:03:34 pm

What attracts Jane to Mr.Rochester so much is that they both act the same in terms of their attitude and personality. For one, they both are very blunt and assertive, as well as intellectual equals. One scene that shows their similar personality was when the scene where Jane gets caught staring at Mr.Rochester while he was looking at the fire. Mr. Rochester says “You examine me, Miss Eyre...do you think me handsome?” (149). Jane replies instantly by saying no. Mr. Rochester tells her about herself in a way. He tells her how when she is asked a question, she’s gives an answer that is basically either blunt or “brusque”. This scene shows their similar personalities because Mr. Rochester is blunt when he asks Jane if she finds him attractive and Jane is blunt because she tells Mr. Rochester that she doesn’t find him attractive. I think one thing, other their personalities that attracts Jane to Mr. Rochester is how he can handle her attitude because some people might feel offended by how blunt Jane is, but Mr. Rochester never feels that way. That’s what he enjoys about having conversations with her, she says how she feels no matter how harsh it is and he acts the same exact way. What I can say, us as the readers is attracted to in terms of Jane’s and Mr.Rochester’s personalities is that it is very entertaining for us to read. It’s kind of like a constant battle between them, due to their nonchalant and blunt attitudes. It makes reading their conversations that much more enjoyable. Jane will do Mr. Rochester some good because first they were intellectually and spiritually connected in many ways. Then when Jane saved Mr. Rochester’s life, it showed how he she did him some good. He even says “I knew you would do me good in some way, at some time; I saw it in your eyes when I first beheld you; their expression and smile did not - did not strike delight to my very inmost heart so for nothing. People talk of natural sympathies; I have heard of good genii; there are grains of truth in the wildest fable. My cherished preserver, good-night!” (179). I think what Mr. Rochester is hoping Jane can gave him is a companion, one who brings him happiness, joy and is emotionally, spiritually and intellectually connected to him. I think Jane is the first person Mr. Rochester met that is on his level, in terms of intellectual compatibility. I believe this what drives Mr. Rochester towards Jane and why he likes her so much.

2/22/2015 09:16:06 am

When Jane and Mr. Rochester were sitting in front of the fire, Jane stayed looking at Mr. Rochester. She was examining and seeing how Mr. Rochester looked for a good amount of time. “You examine me Miss Eyre, said he; do you think I’m handsome?” (Bronte, 149). I feel like Jane finds the way Mr. Rochester is or his personality and how he trusts her attractive. Jane couldn’t respond to him and it made Mr. Rochester mad, but I feel like that kind of lead him to like her. While Jane stared at Mr. Rochester, she kind of saw a different person because he was “not quite so stern; much less gloomy.” (Bronte, 148). I feel like maybe he is different when he is alone or also maybe because Jane is there. The way Jane is attracted to him, he is also attracted to her. I feel like they both are kind of the same in a way, but can someone explain to me if Mr. Rochester is attracted o her, how or why?

2/22/2015 01:38:22 pm

Mr. Rochester I believe is very attracted to Jane and of the reasons is because in many ways she challenges him. She challenges him verbally and mentally, the way she is so blunt and straightforward. That’s one of the things Mr. Rochester likes about her, she always she exactly how she feels, without holding back, and that’s how Mr.Rochester is himself. They have very similar attitudes and personalities. This is honestly the thing that I think he is attracted to most about Jane. If you notice in just about any scene when they are together, all does is try to talk her, either through a conversation or by asking questions, but no matter what, they are always talking when they’re usually together.

Comments are closed.

Jane Eyre - Chapters 11-17 - Lowood and Thornfield (Primary and Secondary Blog Entries)

Virtual Classroom Week Schedule
Mon: Youtube AP Lit Lecture
Tues: Poetry Blog Part 1
Wed: Youtube AP Lit Lecture
Thurs: Poetry Blog Part 1 con't
Fri: Poetry Blog Part 2
Once a Week: MC PPC

Blog Post Rubric

Archives

Categories

Jane Eyre - Chapters 11-17 - Lowood and Thornfield (Primary and Secondary Blog Entries)

Virtual Classroom Week ScheduleMon: Youtube AP Lit LectureTues: Poetry Blog Part 1Wed: Youtube AP Lit LectureThurs: Poetry Blog Part 1 con'tFri: Poetry Blog Part 2Once a Week: MC PPC

Blog Post Rubric

Archives

Categories

Virtual Classroom Week Schedule
Mon: Youtube AP Lit Lecture
Tues: Poetry Blog Part 1
Wed: Youtube AP Lit Lecture
Thurs: Poetry Blog Part 1 con't
Fri: Poetry Blog Part 2
Once a Week: MC PPC