Jane Eyre, the protagonist of Charlotte Brontë's novel, is a governess who challenges Victorian gender roles through her independence and moral strength. The novel explores themes of gender equality, social class, and feminism as Jane confronts societal constraints. In a pivotal scene, Jane asserts her autonomy when refusing to accept subservience, illustrating her courage and desire for respect. Brontë's language often employs contrast and direct speech to emphasize Jane's moral resolve and critique gender inequality. For example, Jane describes her feelings about her position and her rights, stating, 'I am a free human being with an independent will.' Such phrases highlight her resistance to traditional gender roles. The novel's reflection of feminism is rooted in Jane's insistence on moral and personal integrity despite restrictive social norms, making her a symbol of female independence. This scene and the language surrounding it serve as a powerful commentary on gender roles and the pursuit of equality.

In the novel, Charlotte Brontë employs various literary techniques to depict Jane's defiance of gender expectations. The use of dialogue conveys Jane's assertiveness, while contrast emphasizes her moral strength against societal norms. Look at the phrase: 'I am a free human being with an independent will.' This line exemplifies the use of direct speech and metaphor to illustrate personal independence. Brontë also uses tone to underscore Jane's resolve, often employing phrases that contrast her inner strength with external constraints. Such techniques reinforce the theme of feminism within the narrative framework. Consider how the language choices reflect her challenge to traditional gender roles and her desire for equality.