Presentiments, Sympathies, Signs: Jane discusses her belief in presentiments, sympathies, and signs, and how they are mysteries humanity hasn't fully understood.
Childhood Memories: Jane recalls a childhood memory about dreams and their connections to real-life events.
Death and Family: News of deaths in the Reed family and their impact on relationships.
Plot Summary
Strange Dreams and Their Impact
Jane has recurring dreams of a child, which she finds unsettling.
These dreams precede the visit of Robert Leven, who brings news from Gateshead.
Visit from Robert Leven
Robert, a former coachman, informs Jane of John Reed's death and Mrs. Reed's illness.
Mrs. Reed has suffered a stroke and has been calling for Jane.
Jane decides to return to Gateshead.
Interaction with Mr. Rochester
Jane requests a leave of absence from Mr. Rochester to visit her ailing aunt.
Mr. Rochester is informed of Jane's family connections and her need to visit.
He gives Jane money for her travels and they discuss Adele's future.
Rochester hints at future marriage plans and potential changes.
Arrival at Gateshead
Jane is welcomed by Bessie and learns of the Reed family situation.
Eliza and Georgiana Reed are introduced, showcasing their contrasting personalities.
Family Tensions
Jane observes the unchanged furniture and the changed demeanor of her cousins.
Eliza is practical and religious, while Georgiana is vain and self-centered.
Jane reflects on her relationship with her aunt and cousins.
Mrs. Reed's Confession
Mrs. Reed, in her dying days, admits to having wronged Jane by hiding a letter from her uncle.
The letter from John Eyre expressed his desire to adopt Jane.
Mrs. Reed harbors resentment towards Jane, stemming from her dislike for Jane's mother.
Themes of Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Jane offers forgiveness to Mrs. Reed, facing her with calmness and strength.
Despite Jane's attempts at reconciliation, Mrs. Reed remains cold and resentful.
Jane’s reflections on forgiveness and her decision to let go of past grievances.
Final Moments with Mrs. Reed
Jane stays with Mrs. Reed until her death.
The chapter ends with Jane reflecting on the stern nature of Mrs. Reed and the inevitability of death.
Character Development
Jane Eyre: Shows growth in strength and understanding; she attempts reconciliation with her aunt despite past grievances.
Mrs. Reed: Displays persistent bitterness even on her deathbed.
Eliza and Georgiana Reed: Illustrates contrasting personalities and their coping mechanisms with family crisis.
Important Quotes
Jane on Presentiments: "Presentiments are strange things, and so are sympathies and signs, and the three combined make one mystery to which Humanity has not yet found the key."
Jane’s Reflection on Forgiveness: "Love me, then, or hate me, as you will... you have my full and free forgiveness: ask now for God's, and be at peace."