Feminism is a very contradictory theme throughout literary history. It does not have to be seen as a complete rebellion against men, but can simply represent intelligence and self-worth in a female. This philosophy is shown in many of the works of Charlotte Bronte. She uses independence as a "keynote in her thinking about her own life and the life of all unmarried women" (Ewbank 157). One such work is Jane Erye. .
In this novel Charlotte Bronte personifies her philosophy through the main character of Jane. As Jane matures from child to woman her strength of character is what makes her memorable. Through her endurance, moral convictions, and intense emotional capacity Jane is shown as the epidemy of feminism. Jane's strength to endure harsh circumstances is shown throughout the novel. The novel "arrests attention in its opening chapters by disclosing an individual character enmeshed in, yet independent of, unusual circumstances" (Tillotson 28). Under the care of her aunt, Jane must endure a loveless childhood. She is always seen as an outsider looking in. Jane's strength is shown by her lack of self-pity. Although she is like a terrified cornered animal she fights back with intellectual and imaginative resourcefulness (Tillotson 28-29). "There is no emotional indulgence in Jane's childhood sufferings" (Craik 77). This behavior is continued with her stay at Lowood school. Here she continues to be neglected and ignored. Only through her friendship of Miss Temple and Helen Burns is she shown hope. The school section shows "the mind of the child that was going to grow into Jane Erye, the woman. Every incident and every character has a bearing on the growth of Jane into a woman of passion and absolute moral integrity" (Ewbank 174) As Jane enters a new phase of her life, at Thornfield, her endurance is once again tested. Her relationship with Mr. Rochester causes emotional conflict from its beginning.