Jane Eyre as an Unconventional or Untraditional Novel

Answer

In what sense is “Jane Eyre” an unconventional/untraditional novel

“Jane Eyre” (1847), written by Charlotte Bronte (1816-1855), stands out as an unconventional novel in many ways. It fought the societal norms of its time. This remarkable work portrays an independent and strong-willed female protagonist, Jane, who challenges gender roles and seeks love and respect. The novel is structured with complex morality, class, and spirituality themes, paving the way for modern storytelling. Let us explore how “Jane Eyre” breaks literary boundaries as an untraditional and timeless masterpiece.

Unconventional Protagonist: Unlike the typical heroines of the era, Jane Eyre defies societal expectations. She is described as plain, poor, and orphaned. Jane’s self-reliance and determination are evident when she declares, 

I care for myself. The more solitary, the more friendless, the more unsustained I am, the more I will respect myself.

Bildungsroman Structure: “Jane Eyre” follows the Bildungsroman structure, focusing on the protagonist’s moral and psychological growth. Brontë adds a twist by employing a first-person narrative, allowing readers to experience Jane’s journey intimately. It permits readers to empathize with her struggles and emotions.

Exploration of Class Differences: The novel explores the vast disparities between the upper and lower classes, highlighting the harsh treatment of low-income people and their challenges. Jane challenges the notion of class superiority when she states, 

Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless?

Unconventional Love Story: The romance between Jane and Rochester defies societal norms due to their class differences and Rochester’s existing marriage. Their relationship challenges the traditional idea of love and societal expectations. Jane’s assertion of her worth personifies this unconventional love when she says, 

I am not talking to you now through the medium of custom, conventionalities, nor even of mortal flesh.

Psychological Depth: Brontë analyzes the psychological complexities of her characters, specifically Jane. The novel explores the human mind and emotions, including the sophistication of the human psyche, which was uncommon for its time.

Autobiographical Elements: The novel comprises autobiographical