Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
book 26: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
I enjoyed it mostly. It's a romance at its heart, but unlike most modern romances, the characters aren't vapid and trivial. The romance is central to the plot, but it is really a vehicle to explore Jane Eyre's depth of character. She's impressive because of the depth, well-roundedness, and evolution of herself through her life experiences, which is recognizable in humanity of any age. On top of that, it seems a bit advanced for the time period in which it was written because Jane, and the author in her foreword, assert an equality between social classes and the sexes which doesn't seem to be a common view in the nineteenth century (and maybe even now). She also shows strength of character by relying on her own values instead of being swayed into doing something she knows is wrong, even when it requires she sacrifice almost everything, including breaking her own passionate heart. There were a couple points in the story that felt like they dragged a bit and the religious overtones were pretty heavy, especially at the end, but I can understand why those elements where there. I also found it a bit jarring when suddenly 2/3rds into the story the narrator started addressing the reader directly. But, overall, I thought it a pretty good book, and I certainly identified with the main character in many ways. I think the book is worthwhile, but it is an introspective book rather than action-packed. it may be dull in parts for someone who expects a fast pace in their literary choices.