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Key Themes in Jane Eyre Chapter 23

Apr 10, 2025

Lecture Notes: Jane Eyre Chapter 23

Setting and Atmosphere

  • Midsummer Setting:

    • Described as splendid with pure skies and radiant suns.
    • Comparisons to Italian days resting on English landscapes.
    • The natural environment is vividly described with green fields, baked roads, and deep-tinted woods.
  • Evening Description:

    • The garden is described as a sweet and serene place as the sun sets.
    • Strong imagery of colors and scents, such as the scent of cigars, and the fragrant flowers in the garden.
    • The serene atmosphere is slightly tense due to Mr. Rochester's presence.

Interaction with Mr. Rochester

  • Jane's Attempt to Avoid Rochester:

    • Jane initially attempts to avoid being seen by Mr. Rochester.
    • Mr. Rochester finds Jane despite her efforts to remain hidden.
  • Conversation in the Garden:

    • Mr. Rochester engages Jane in conversation about the garden and the land.
    • Discussion of Jane's attachment to Thornfield and its inhabitants.
    • Mr. Rochester hints that Jane must leave Thornfield soon.
  • Departure from Thornfield:

    • Jane is informed of Mr. Rochester’s impending marriage to another woman, Miss Ingram.
    • Mr. Rochester speaks of arranging another position for Jane.
    • Jane reflects on her feelings, expressing sorrow at the thought of leaving.

Emotional Climax

  • Jane's Emotional Conflict:

    • Jane expresses deep emotional turmoil at the thought of leaving Mr. Rochester and Thornfield.
    • She shares her honest feelings, admitting her love for Mr. Rochester.
    • Rochester reciprocates, expressing his own feelings and intentions.
  • Proposal:

    • Mr. Rochester proposes to Jane, asking her to stay and marry him.
    • Jane is initially skeptical and struggles to believe his sincerity.
  • Resolution and Reconciliation:

    • Mr. Rochester reassures Jane, declaring his genuine love and commitment.
    • There's a moment of emotional reconciliation between Jane and Mr. Rochester.

Symbolism and Imagery

  • Nature's Role:
    • The natural environment mirrors the emotional intensity of the scene.
    • A storm with lightning and thunder occurs, symbolizing the dramatic change in their relationship.
    • The splitting of the chestnut tree is a significant symbol representing division and possibly foreshadowing future events.

Conclusion

  • Ending Scene:
    • The chapter closes with a storm, indicating turmoil and change.
    • Jane finds comfort in Mr. Rochester’s concern during the storm.
    • The chapter ends with symbolic imagery of the chestnut tree being struck by lightning, hinting at potential consequences of their union.