The relationship between character and atmosphere is one of the principal concerns in Jane Eyre. This is developed with reference to Jane's movement from place to place. The movement from one place to another can be called the movement in atmosphere in the novel. Corresponding to the movement in atmosphere, there is a movement in character. Location changes correspond to similar changes in the nature of Jane's experience. Each location represents a stage both physical and experiential. The significance of the five locations (Gateshead, Lowood, Thornfield, Moor House and Ferndean) lies in the fact that each house is a metaphor for each of the stages through which Jane has pass on her journey to self-discovery. .
For the most part, the mood of the novel is sad and depressing. Jane needs to rise above one hardship after another. Since the novel is related in the first person, everything is colored by Jane's gloomy point of view. Early in the novel, Jane shows certain spunk, and the mood brightens accordingly. As the novel progresses and the hardships increase, the mood sometimes darkens to somberness and despair. Throughout the novel Jane gradually acquires mature confidence. At the end, Jane is triumphant in her quest for love and the mood, for the first time, is that of peace and contentment.
Jane's passionate rebelliousness at Gateshead leads to her isolation and rejection. Charlotte Bronte often presents Jane as an isolated figure. This isolation is related to the atmosphere of Gateshead, which is a place characterized by physical cold. Jane's character is not one that endears her to others. Her experience in the red room brings forth her emotional outbursts. Even the friendly Bessie is limited both in understanding and sympathy. John Reed bullies Jane physically. Mrs. Reed exercises her tyrannical authority over her. Jane's situation and character drive her to lonely introspection. "You .
are passionate, Jane, that you must allow,"" Mrs.
