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Gateshead Is a Torment for Jane Eyre
by Natalia Barcenilla Castejón (2008-09, 5º B)
Being an intruder in a house where everyone puts the blame on you, should be a difficult task to handle, even more in the Nineteenth century where manners prevailed over morals.
Impolite, cheeky, independent and ugly weren't good guarantees to be loved and pitied.
Not belonging to the only family she had met since her birth nor enjoying their privileges, Jane Eyre developed a natural feeling for loneliness and independence that hardened her character and heart. Completely absorbed in fantastic books and Bessie's stories she made up a tailor-made world where she played the main role being strong and tough in the face of adversity.
Mrs. Reeds couldn't take notice of Jane's suffering, on the contrary no good could be felt nor sensed but rude and ungrateful manners.
Devotedly dedicated to her own children's education, Jane symbolized all Mrs. Reed would never accept in a child. So naughty and insensitive a girl could never share the advantages of taking part in an upper-class family whose only fault was having accepted Jane to be brought up as one of them . Not taking into account Mr. Reeds dying wish, Mrs. Reed did all her best to drag Jane away from Gateshead sparing no efforts in obtaining her aim. Sending Jane far away from one's family was stronger than feeling remorse and regret.