Helen Burns

Question 1

“ when you hear that I am dead you must be sure and not grieve: there is nothing to grieve about. “

Answer 1

This speech comes when Helen Burns is dying in Jane’s arms at Lowood School. Although she only appears for a few chapters, Helen and her view of Christianity become very significant to Jane as she grows into adulthood. Helen argued for turning the other cheek: accepting the injustice and unhappiness of the earthly world because of the joys that await in heaven. Although Jane does not wholly agree with Helen’s passivity, particularly in the face of the torments at Lowood, she admires Helen’s strength of faith. Still, Jane fears for her friend’s death and the inevitable loneliness that will come when she is gone. Helen strives to convince Jane not to be unhappy because she is finally fulfilling her destiny and finding peace with God.

Question 2

I am going to god

Answer 2

Level of undertaking and maturity
Accepts and embraces
Encourages Jane to do the same

Question 3

“ it is far better to endure patiently “

Answer 3

Contrasts Jane
Confused at her patience when suffering
Jane filled with “ unavailing and impotent anger “ as helen beat by Miss S

Question 4

Life appears to short to be spent in musing animosity

Answer 4

Foreshadows early death
Show helen taught Jane