Victorian Inspiration by Isabella

Victorian Inspiration by Isabella - July 2013 Scholarship Essay

            In the many hours I have spent reading countless novels, documentaries and historical accounts for English classes, I must admit there are quite a few that I would reread. Yet there has been only one that I have reread on many accounts on my own terms. This novel was written in Victorian England; however, it did not contain the common mindset of the time period. Rather the author expressed her true opinions, thoughts and concerns regarding the severe lack of feminist concern. This novel is thought by many to be one of the first to promote a feminist outlook. With little surprise to those familiar with the Brontë sisters, I am referring to Jane Eyre written by Charlotte Brontë.
            I chose to read this work for an Advanced Placement Literature class, in order to gain a fundamental understanding of the conditions faced by Victorian era women. I was expecting a somewhat degrading description of the female gender, depicting powerless and lesser attitudes. Thus the opinionated determination possessed by the eponymous character, paired with her outright refusal to accept a mental subservient role was very empowering and inspirational to me and the women of her time. Brontë captured the essence of a free spirited girl who fought her class, her gender and her background in order to get what she wanted and defend her rights.
            This novel has quickly become my first choice for reports, essays and just for personal reading. The message is very captivating yes, but the diction and syntax used gives a magical flow to the words that, though it may sound cliché, enables me to become captivated by the story. I enjoy not only reading it, but also researching both criticisms and biographical information on Brontë in order to obtain a complete understanding of her inspiration in writing and the connections that Jane Eyre has with her own attitude and beliefs. Perhaps what intrigues me most is the fact that many critics believe that Jane Eyre is a model for Brontë’s own life. This gives the novel a sense of history, like a window into the mind and life of the author. This connection gives the novel amazing depth, and though “no net shall ensnare” Jane Eyre, Jane Eyre ensnared me.