Jane Eyre, written by Charlotte Brontë, is a classic example of the Bildungsroman genre, which traces the protagonist’s moral and psychological growth from childhood to maturity. The novel opens with Jane as an orphaned girl facing adversity at Gateshead Hall, where her resilience begins to develop. As she matures, Jane encounters various challenges that test her integrity and independence, such as her time at Lowood School and her complex relationship with Mr. Rochester. The story explores themes of identity, morality, and social class, charting Jane’s journey toward self-discovery. Key phrases such as ‘a wild, restless spirit’ and ‘a resolve to be independent’ highlight her character development. The novel’s structure intertwines personal growth with societal critique, making it a quintessential Bildungsroman. Brontë’s use of evocative descriptions and subtle symbolism enhances the depth of Jane’s character arc, illustrating her transition from innocence to experienced maturity.

‘I was a discord in Gateshead: I was like nobody there; I knew nobody there. I was a discord in the choir of life; my notes were false, my harmony was broken.’ — Charlotte Brontë. This excerpt employs metaphor by comparing Jane’s emotional state to musical discord. The imagery of ‘notes being false’ and ‘harmony being broken’ vividly illustrates her feelings of alienation and inner turmoil as a young orphan in a hostile environment.

‘I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.’ — Charlotte Brontë. The phrase ‘no net ensnares me’ employs a metaphor to emphasise Jane’s assertion of independence. The assertive tone reflects her defiance against societal constraints.