First published in 1847 as Jane Eyre: An Autobiography, this coming of
age novel follows the life of Jane Eyre, an orphan who lives with her
maternal uncle and is subjected to abuse by his family. Mr. Rochester of
Thornfield Hall employs her as a governess to instruct his ward. Jane
unexpectedly falls in love with her brooding but kind employer. However,
their love undergoes a severe test when certain secrets of Rochester's
home are about to come knocking at her door.
A number of initial reviews of the book were rather critical, declaring
the storyline unnatural and absurd. Yet there were others who praised
its fast pace, vigour, and spirit of humanity. Charlotte, like her
protagonist, Jane, had worked as a governess for a few years. Although
it may seem the similarities end there, the minute details of the story
and the characters populating her canvas beg to differ.
Jane Eyre addresses multiple themes, including religion and class, and
is a powerful social commentary on the times in which it was set. It has
been adapted multiple times to various formats and has been an
inspiration to many an author and artist since its publication.