Chapters 5-10

Subject: Chapters 5-10 Sun Feb 04, 2007 8:41 pm

This forum is for discussions of Jane Eyre, Chapters 5-10

Subject: Chapter 6 Mon Feb 05, 2007 5:30 am

I am just starting this section, but I thought that I would comment on the conversation between Helen and Jane before I forget or something else comes to my mind.

I thought that for a ten and thirteen year old the conversation that they held in chapter six during free time, was quite advanced both in language and in topic. At this point it made me feel like the character Helen, is a bit unbelievable. Though, I do still feel like Jane is a 'realistic' character.

Subject: Re: Chapters 5-10 Mon Feb 05, 2007 6:35 am

Jane questions the presence of God and heaven when she is with the dying Helen. This is a new area of discussion for the books we have read, since all books seem to imply that regardless of social class, all of the characters have held a belief in God. This is the first time that we have heard any character question that, espcially a young, poor, female.

Sparknotes points out the opposing religious roles that Mr. Brocklehurst and Helen play, but I also think they oppose each other in intelligence, grace and behavior. Helen IS all that she believes in, she is sharp and well spoken. Mr. Brocklehurst SPEAKS of religion and acts differently, he is crass and poorly informed.

Bessie's return sheds some light on the futures of the Reed family, and may be forshadowing the appearance of Mr. Eyre sometime later in the book.

In this section, Jane learns to establish friendships. It seemed to me that she cared for Bessie, as the one person who was kindest to her, but never developed a bond, in this section she befriends both Helen and Miss Temple (and it is alluded that she has other friends such as Mary) in a way that she learns to trust, depend and love another, and receive those emotions as well.

Subject: Re: Chapters 5-10 Tue Feb 06, 2007 4:24 am

Nine years in five chapters. Now thats the pace I'm looking for. I was not stunned that she went from the pot to the fire. She really had it tough in the beginning at school. Unlike most of these books, after Mr. Brocklehurst was found out, there were changes. Jane was able to tolerate it, and even enjoy it with Miss Temple. She decided to stay there and teach for two years. A good friendship with Miss Temple taught Jane to trust a little and share her feelings and life with someone.

I enjoyed the visit with Bessie. All the updates on the family were interesting. I'm sure there will be more.

I was shocked that a young girl named Helen has such a profound understanding of her life. She figured out how much was enough and how much she could take. She was at peace with herself at such a young age. I think Jane was surprised that the faith in God helped her be at peace. Jane had not had much exposure to this in her life.

It is quite interesting that even at an age of 18 years old, Jane would have to have her Aunt notified of her whereabouts. I'm glad Mrs. Reed didn't care.

Onward ho!

Subject: Re: Chapters 5-10 Sat Feb 10, 2007 4:07 pm

i think children who were given an opportunity to go to shcool back then were much farther 'along' than children are today. Education has really been watered down in the last 50 years. If you ever have a chance to look at an elementary schhool primer that was being used near the turn of the century (meaning the early h1900's) children were MUCH more advanced in what they were exposed to. Children had a higher vocabulary, in part because the main book read to them was the bible. Even this book, Jane Eyre, was found in the childrens section of the library when i was a kid, and for many jr. high english classes it was required reading.
I think helen and Jane were both exposed to religion from an early age and exposed quite often, in particular, Helen. 1.5 hours a morning !!! hello!? You have a lot of time to form an opinion. Also when one is powerless to change their circumstances, as helen was, one often finds a way to deal with it by making excuses for it/accepting it. How about women w/Mormonism, the Jim Jones cult, people who are kidnapped and don't try to escape? they come to accept what the are exposed to and may even come to disire it. How's that for way out there?
I was glad to get an update on the Reed family and glad to hear that John was making his mothers life miserable. i liked the hint about an Eyre relative, too.

Subject: Re: Chapters 5-10 Wed Feb 14, 2007 5:45 pm

Karen,

I have home schooled my children in the 6,7,8th grades and I agree with your opinion. I also own the "McGuffy Primers." They really are advanced. With all the intrusions; video games, social peer groups, and high technology standards brought on by these children now a days you are right. Back then the children used books for entertainment. Now ---everything else.

Very good observation.

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