1. Though Jane Eyre is not a gothic novel, it contains gothic elements, especially when Jane is at Thornfield. Discuss these elements and the effect they have on both Jane’s development as a character and the novel as a whole.
By definition a gothic novel should include elements such as: an atmosphere of gloom and terror, supernatural happenings, and often violence and horror.
When Jane moves into Thornfield, we find that the atmosphere is much less inviting then we originally hoped. The stairs and windows were described as being more suited for a church than a house, which created a detached feeling from the rooms. Generally, when thinking of a house or home we think of a warm inviting atmosphere. However, since most of our time is not spent in a church, we can not call this home, which causes a detached feeling from the building. Affirming our feelings towards the house, the atmosphere is described as chilly, gloomy and mysterious. This involves 2, almost 3, aspects of a gothic novel; gloom, terror and horror [mystery].
The strange and mysterious laughing coming from the attic doors is then explained. This, we later discover, is from Grace Poole, a strange character within herself. She adds to the gothic theme, bringing terror into the house. Maniac laughing is usually not the most pleasant way to be welcomed into the house, and puts everyone on edge. It’s a mysterious piece of the puzzle that brings the creepiness to the scenes.
6. Discuss the role of art in Jane’s life with specific reference to the text, especially to her work.
Although Jane was designed to be an average, plain girl, she has extraordinary talent when it comes to art. To me, it seems that this becomes an outlet of excess emotions. It allows her to stay grounded, with a final product that’s not cause for argument. Through her artwork, it allows the reader to become more attached to such a simple character. Since we are used to outrageous characters that can fly, shoot spider webs or achieve extraordinary things, the writer must come up with ways in order to cause the reader to connect with Jane.
However, considering how plausible she is, one would think that readers would be able to sympathize and relate to her on more of a personal and deeper level. [just a thought]
I enjoyed your assessment of the novel's gothic elements: their significance in characterizing Thornfield as a cold, foreboding manor had not occurred to me. Art as a socially acceptable outlet for Jane's powerful emotions was a good insight. I was partly confused, however, by your descriptions of Jane's artistic life. Would not a common audience be more able to relate to "an average, plain girl" than to a heroin of extraordinary talents? (though, nothing in Rochester's or Jane's appraisal of her paintings suggests to me that her talents are extraordinary.) You seem to answer that Jane's averageness makes her more plausible and thus more relatable, where previously you had suggested that some extraordinary talent was demanded by a readership used to heros "that can fly [and] shoot spider webs...". I'm not sure if this was the condition of the Victorian audience for whom Jane Eyre was written.
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