Jane Eyre Quotes

Question 1

“I am no bird; and no not ensnares me”

Answer 1

Analysis:
- Metaphor of bird/net represents Jane’s rejection of confinement and gender expectations.
- Asserts her emotional and intellectual independence—key feminist message.
- Reflects Brontë’s critique of Victorian patriarchy.

Context:
Chapter 23 - Jane is asserting her independence and rejecting Mr. Rochester’s attempt to confine her to the role of a woman who is merely a “bird” to be kept in a “cage”.

Theme:
Feminism, Autonomy, Love on Equal Terms.

Question 2

“Do you think I am an automaton? - a machine without feelings”

Answer 2

Analysis:
- Challenges the idea that women should be emotionally passive.
- Use of rhetorical question and mechanical metaphor emphasises Jane’s demand for recognition of her humanity.
- Undermines Rochester’s initial attempts to control her.

Context:
Chapter 23 - quote is used by Jane in response to Rochester’s comments about her perceived lack of emotion, highlighting her desire to be seen and acknowledged as a person with feelings.

Theme:
Gender Roles, Emotional Authenticity, Romantic Idealism.

Question 3

“I will keep the law given by God; sanctioned by man”

Answer 3

Analysis:
- Expresses Jane’s personal moral compass: faith and integrity.
- She leaves Rochester despite love—moral strength overrides passion.
- Religious language, but distinct from oppressive religion shown in other characters.

Context:
Chapter 27 - a key moment where Jane asserts her moral integrity and chooses to leave Mr. Rochester, despite their strong feelings, because she cannot be his mistress

Question 4

“I am a free human being with an independent will”

Answer 4

Analysis:
- Declaration of selfhood; bold and assertive.
- Emphasises Jane’s refusal to be subordinate.
- Embodies proto-feminist ideals in a male-dominated society.

Chapter 23

Theme:
Identity, Gender, Feminism.