Gender roles are a theme which is explored in a number of ways in Charlotte Bronte's "Jane Eyre." ... Jane's search for independence from the men in her life is a continuing theme in the novel. ... Indeed, Bertens describes how "thinking in terms of gender stereotypes" has brought about men with female - and therefore "weak" - attributes, "whom everybody automatically assumed to be 'masculine', to positions of great power"[4]. ... Mrs Fairfax's actual position shows that she is far from it – "this affable and kind little wid...

• Word Count: 1797
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

The true definition of what makes a feminist text remains undecided, but can largely be received in light of strong female characters, social commentary, themes and the political stance taken by the author. ... Rochester is forced to place a great deal of trust in Jane. ... As a devout Protestant, Charlotte does not write of him as such a close Catholic by accidental means- the contextual significance of his religion is great, and his constant attempts to convert Lucy only cast further shadows upon his intentions. ...

• Word Count: 2473
• Approx Pages: 10
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate