Jane Eyre : Summary

Plot Summary

Jane’s Miserable Life at Gateshead: At the beginning of the novel, we find Jane Eyre, a 10-year-old orphan. She lives at Gateshead Hall in the house of her aunt, Mrs. Sarah Reed. Her aunt was a very cruel woman, and Jane Eyre was the object of her hatred. Mrs. Reed had two daughters, Georgiana and Eliza, and one son, John. Like their mother, they also despised Jane. Among them, John was the worst. He constantly looked for chances to insult, bully, and hurt Jane. He makes her life miserable. In this house, if Jane ever received kindness from anyone, it was from the servant Bessie Lee.

One day, when Jane was secretly reading a book behind the curtain, John mocked her for being an orphan. He also said that her father had left no money for her, and if she were not living in their house, she would have had to beg on the streets. Finally, he snatched the book from her hand and threw it at her head. This causes her forehead to bleed. In anger, Jane scratched him. As punishment, Mrs. Reed locked her in the Red Room upstairs, the room where her uncle Mr. Reed had died. Jane believed that her uncle’s ghost haunted the room. At night, she was so terrified that she fainted. When she regained consciousness, she found the kind doctor Mr. Lloyd and Bessie sitting beside her. Since Mrs. Reed had gone out with her children, Mr. Lloyd had time to speak with Jane at length. After hearing everything from Jane, he advised Mrs. Reed that Jane was unhappy at Gateshead and would be better off if sent away to a school.

Jane’s School Life Begins: Jane was sent to Lowood School. The director and headmaster of this school was Mr. Brocklehurst, a cruel, harsh-tongued, and hypocritical man. He instructed the teachers to give the girls little food so that they might learn to endure hardship like the martyrs of old who served God faithfully. But with the school’s donation money, he and his family lived a life of luxury. At Lowood, Jane found two well-wishers: her friend Helen Burns and their teacher Miss Maria Temple. Though Jane suffered from hunger, starvation, and the bitter cold at Lowood, she at least found relief from the cruelty of Mrs. Reed and her son.

But soon, severe winter struck the school. A typhus epidemic spread, killing Helen, Jane’s dearest friend, along with nearly 30 other girls. This finally drew the attention of the local community. Wealthy people collected large donations to reform and reorganize the school’s management. Jane remained there for about six years as a student, and later for two more years as a teacher. After Miss Temple got married, Jane felt lonely and dissatisfied at Lowood. So, she placed an advertisement in the newspaper seeking a position as a teacher.

Jane’s Teaching and the Beginning of Her Love Life: About two weeks later, a letter arrived from Thornfield Hall. It said that a French child named Adèle Varens needed a governess. Adèle’s background was that Mr. Edward Rochester, the master of Thornfield, had adopted her. It was also rumored that Rochester once had a love affair with Adèle’s mother, Céline Varens. When Rochester realized Céline was greedy for his money and unfaithful, he left her and took Adèle with him.

When Jane went to Thornfield, she found the place very agreeable. She quickly grew fond of her pupil Adèle and of Mrs. Fairfax, the housekeeper. About three months later, one day while walking by the river, Jane first met Mr. Rochester. Secretly, Jane fell in love with him, but she dared not express her feelings.

One night, Jane heard a sudden cry and rushed outside but found nothing at first. When she went near Rochester’s room, she discovered that it was on fire. Rochester was asleep in a deep slumber, almost in danger of death. Jane woke him and saved him from the flames. Rochester later told her that the fire had probably been started by Grace Poole, one of the servants. But since Grace continued to work in the house as usual, Jane realized Rochester had not told her the whole truth that night.

Later, when Mr. Rochester invited a woman named Blanche Ingram to Thornfield—who was clearly greedy for money—Jane was plunged into despair. One night, a man named Mr. Mason arrived from Jamaica. Rochester was visibly displeased at first, but after a long conversation with him in private, he came out looking calm and satisfied.

That same night, Jane was awakened again by a terrible cry. This time, Rochester secretly called her to an upstairs room. There she saw Mr. Mason lying badly wounded. Rochester asked Jane to hold a sponge against Mason’s bleeding wounds while he went to fetch a doctor. Within two hours, the doctor arrived, and before morning, Rochester sent Mason away to the doctor’s house. Even then, he did not reveal the full truth to Jane.

Jane Visits Her Sick Aunt at Gateshead: A few days later, Bessie’s husband, Robert Leaven, came to Thornfield and informed Jane that Mrs. Reed wished to see her. She was now bedridden. Jane took a week’s leave and set out for Gateshead. When she met Mrs. Reed, her aunt confessed that she still hated Jane. Jane also learned that John Reed had ruined himself through drinking and gambling. Before his death, he had tried to force his mother to sign over all her property to him. Soon after, he died in London.

In the fifth week, Mrs. Reed called Jane to her side and gave her a letter written three years earlier by Jane’s uncle, John Eyre. In the letter, he had expressed his wish to adopt Jane and make her his heir. But Mrs. Reed admitted that she had written back, falsely claiming that Jane had died of typhus fever. That very same day, Mrs. Reed died.

Rochester’s Proposal at Thornfield: When Jane returned to Thornfield, she soon received Rochester’s proposal. He confessed his love for her. At first, Jane could not believe it. Rochester explained that he had only brought Blanche Ingram to the house to make Jane jealous. He admitted that from the very first day he saw Jane, he had loved her. Jane then also revealed her love for him. They planned to marry the following month.

On the wedding day, just as they were about to take their vows, Mr. Mason and a lawyer, Mr. Briggs, interrupted the ceremony. They shouted that Rochester was already married to a woman named Bertha Mason. Mr. Mason declared that he was Bertha’s brother. Hearing this, Rochester did not deny it. He took everyone to Thornfield and showed them the truth: Bertha was indeed insane. In the attic room, she screamed, raged, and ran about wildly like a madwoman.

Later, Rochester explained that in his youth, his father had forced him into the marriage with Bertha Mason to secure wealth, even though she was already mentally unstable. At Thornfield, Rochester kept her locked on the third floor under the watch of Grace Poole. The mysterious fire had in fact been started by Bertha.

Jane’s Marriage, Reunion with Relatives, and the Ending of the Novel: A few days later, with a heavy heart and almost no money, Jane left Thornfield. She had only twenty shillings in her pocket. When she reached Marsh End, her money was finished. Hungry, she begged for food, but no one gave her any. At last, she found shelter at Moor House. There, she introduced herself under the name Jane Elliott. In the house, she became close with Mary, Diana, and St. John Rivers. St. John was a clergyman. He found Jane a job at a free school in Morton.

One day, St. John asked her if she knew anyone named Jane Eyre from Lowood School. Soon, the truth came out: Jane’s uncle, Mr. John Eyre, had died leaving her £20,000. Jane then revealed her true identity. To her surprise, she discovered that the Rivers siblings were actually her cousins. Immediately, Jane decided to share the inheritance, giving £15,000 to her three newfound relatives.

After this, St. John Rivers decided to go to India as a missionary. He proposed marriage to Jane, but she refused, because she still loved Mr. Rochester. One night, she felt as though Rochester’s voice was calling her. Without delay, she rushed to Thornfield—only to find the great house burned to the ground. Rochester’s mad wife, Bertha Mason, had set the fire and perished in the flames.

Rochester had managed to save his servants, but in the attempt, he lost his eyesight and the use of one hand. He was now living at Ferndean (A small, lonely mansion). Jane went to him, and despite his blindness and disability, she married him. When Jane wrote this autobiography, she and Rochester had already passed ten joyful years together. Jane also brought Adèle back home from school. Within two years, Rochester regained partial vision in one eye and was able to see their newborn child.

Detailed Summary-

Chapter 1 – Gateshead: Jane Eyre and the Red-Room

On a gloomy afternoon at Gateshead Hall, ten-year-old Jane Eyre sits alone. Since her aunt, Mrs. Reed, forbade her from playing with her three cousins, she sits in the curtained window-seat reading History of British Birds. From the pictures in the book, her imagination creates unknown stories and Arctic scenes. At that moment, her cousin John Reed comes and insults her. He mocks Jane, calling her a beggar, an orphan, and a servant, and strikes her with a heavy book. For the first time, Jane resists, and a scuffle breaks out between them. Injured and startled, John runs crying to his mother. But Mrs. Reed blames Jane for everything and, as punishment, sends her to the Red Room. The Red Room was a beautiful yet deserted chamber, where Jane’s uncle had died nine years earlier. That dark and frightening room becomes a symbol of pain and terror for young Jane.

Chapter 2 – Fear and Punishment in the Red-Room

Two servants, Bessie Lee and Miss Abbot, drag the screaming Jane upstairs by force. They scold her, saying she has shown disrespect to her aunt, Mrs. Reed. They remind her that her life depends on Mrs. Reed’s charity; otherwise, she would have been sent to a poverty-stricken workhouse. As punishment, they lock her alone inside the Red Room. Seeing her weary, thin body reflected in the mirror fills Jane’s heart with sorrow. She always suffers insults and punishments at Gateshead, while the Reed children enjoy every privilege—this injustice makes her cry bitterly.

She remembers kind Mr. Reed, who, before his death, had wished that Jane be cared for like his own child. Jane begins to think of the dead. She imagines that if injustice is done, the dead may return to seek revenge. Suddenly, she feels the presence of Mr. Reed’s spirit in the Red-Room. Terrified, Jane screams. The door is open, but Mrs. Reed does not believe her words and refuses to let her out. Once again locked inside, overwhelmed by fear and darkness, Jane faints.

Chapter 3 – Bessie’s Care and the Arrival of Mr. Lloyd

Unconscious Jane wakes up to find herself being cared for by the affectionate Bessie and the local apothecary, Mr. Lloyd. Bessie thinks that Mrs. Reed has treated Jane cruelly. She nurses Jane, sings to her, yet Jane remains sad. Jane only feels comfort when she receives a book—Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels. She takes it as a true story of faraway lands and finds joy in it.

When Jane slowly recovers, Mr. Lloyd asks her about her happiness and sorrows. Jane admits that she is unhappy and lonely because she has no family. Yet she says she does not want to live like a beggar. Even if she were poor, she would not want to stay with this family. Mr. Lloyd suggests: Would Jane like to go to school? Jane gladly agrees. Mrs. Reed gives permission, since it gives her a chance to send her niece away.

Later, Jane overhears Bessie telling Miss Abbot about her family. Jane’s father had been a poor clergyman, and her mother was the daughter of the wealthy Reed family. Against her family’s wishes, she married him, and so they disowned her. Soon after Jane’s birth, her father caught typhus while serving the poor. Both her parents died within a short time. Then, the kind Mr. Reed adopted Jane. But within a year, he too died. Before his death, he made his wife, Mrs. Reed, promise to raise Jane as one of her own children—alongside John, Eliza, and Georgiana.

Chapter 4 – Mr. Brocklehurst’s Visit to Gateshead

For two months, Jane Eyre waited restlessly for the day she would go to school. Finally, she met Mr. Brocklehurst, the strict and solemn headmaster of Lowood School. He lectured Jane on religion, especially the virtues of a disciplined and orderly life. During the interview, Mrs. Reed made a false accusation, saying Jane was a liar. Mr. Brocklehurst promised he would inform the teachers of this. Because of Mrs. Reed’s injustice, Jane felt deeply hurt. Suddenly, in anger, she burst out and told her aunt that she was cruel, deceitful, and unfair to her.

Mrs. Reed was stunned by Jane’s bold words. For the first time, Mrs. Reed was left silent and felt defeated. Later, Jane felt a strange excitement within herself—but also a little fear at her uncontrolled emotions. During the rest of her time at Gateshead, the Reed family continued to neglect her. But she grew more confident and open with Bessie. Bessie told her stories, gave her sweets, and admitted that she liked Jane more than the Reed children.

Chapter 5 – Jane’s Journey to Lowood Institution

Four days later, on a cold January morning, Jane Eyre left Gateshead. After a long carriage ride, she arrived at a bleak, gloomy place—Lowood School. It was a charity school for orphaned girls. All the students wore rough, grey uniforms. On the very first day, Jane saw the atmosphere of strict discipline. The teachers marched the girls in rows and gave stern commands. In the long dormitory, the girls slept together. Food was meagre, and often it was inedible.

However, the superintendent, Miss Maria Temple, intervened and arranged for slightly better food. She also taught different subjects. Jane felt deep respect for her kindness and knowledge. During this time, Jane noticed a girl sitting alone reading—Helen Burns, who was also an orphan. Jane was not used to speaking to strangers, but the moment she saw Helen, she felt a sense of familiarity. Jane began asking her questions—about the school, the teachers, and Mr. Brocklehurst. Helen answered everything calmly and politely.

Chapter 6 – Helen Burns and Miss Temple

On Jane Eyre’s second day at Lowood, she woke up shivering in the early morning. Breakfast was meagre and joyless. The washing water in the pitchers had frozen solid. In class, Jane struggled with her lessons, but her eyes kept drifting toward Helen Burns. Helen answered difficult questions with ease. Yet, their teacher, Miss Scatcherd, constantly found faults with her and punished her. At one point, she even struck Helen on the neck with a whip.

Jane was shocked to see that Helen showed no reaction—not even tears came to her eyes. Later, Jane told Helen that she should not tolerate such injustice, that she should resist in anger. But Helen, in a gentle voice, explained her philosophy. In her view, if someone does wrong to you, and you respond with anger or revenge, then you also commit wrong. Instead, if you endure the suffering silently, one day God will reward you. She accepted the hardships of this world because she hoped for a more beautiful life after death. This faith gave her patience and endurance.

Chapter 7 – Mr. Brocklehurst’s Hypocrisy

Life at Lowood School became harder each day. On Sundays, the girls had to walk to Mr. Brocklehurst’s church. Wearing thin clothes, they shivered in the freezing cold. They were always suffering from hunger and cold. Kind-hearted Jane Eyre even gave away some of her little food to other hungry girls.

One day, Mr. Brocklehurst suddenly came to Lowood with his wealthy relatives, dressed in fine and luxurious clothes. In front of everyone, he again pressed Miss Temple to enforce strict rules. Gentle Miss Temple used to bend the rules to give the girls a little comfort, but this time she silently suppressed her anger.

Seeing one girl’s curly reddish hair, Brocklehurst ordered that all the girls’ hair be cut off to maintain humility. Jane trembled in fear at this sight. She remembered her aunt’s accusation—that she was a liar. Now perhaps everyone would know. In her panic, Jane dropped her chalk-slate. Immediately, Brocklehurst made her stand on a high stool. In front of all, he declared that Jane Eyre was a deceiver and a liar. He ordered that no teacher or student should mix with her. Jane broke down in humiliation. But just then, as Helen Burns passed by, she gave Jane a gentle smile. That smile became Jane’s only source of courage and comfort.

Chapter 8 – Miss Temple’s Kindness

In the evening, after school ended, Jane Eyre broke down in despair. She felt that everyone hated her. Crying, she became weak and discouraged. Then Helen Burns came forward. She comforted Jane, telling her that her classmates did not hate her but rather felt pity for her. And even if the whole world despised her, within her faith, Jane would always find friendship and protective love.

That night, Miss Temple called the two girls to her office. She offered them tea and cake. Jane bravely told her about her life, saying that she was not a liar. She tried to remain humble while speaking. Jane was amazed to see how Miss Temple and Helen shone with knowledge and purity.

Miss Temple promised to write to Mr. Lloyd to find out the truth. Within a few days, a letter arrived. Mr. Lloyd confirmed that Jane was indeed innocent. After this, Miss Temple announced publicly before the whole school that Jane Eyre was not a liar. With this recognition, Jane devoted herself to her studies with new energy. She began to excel in French and drawing. Now, not the luxury of Gateshead, but the poor Lowood School itself became her place of refuge and pride.

Chapter 9 – Typhus Fever and Helen’s Death

Spring came, and the weather turned beautiful. But in the damp grounds of Lowood School, a terrible typhus epidemic spread. More than half the students were infected. Many were sent home. Many died. During this time, Jane Eyre was told to spend more time outdoors to keep her health strong. The green fields and flowers filled her heart with joy. Yet, in the middle of nature’s renewal, for the first time, she began to think about death.

Soon Jane learned that Helen Burns was on her deathbed. But her illness was not typhus—it was consumption (tuberculosis). She was kept apart in Miss Temple’s room. One night, Jane secretly went and sat by Helen’s bedside. Helen spoke in a calm voice, saying she was not afraid of death. Because after death, she would leave the pain of this world and go to God. Jane and Helen fell asleep in each other’s arms. At dawn, Helen’s breath had stopped. Helen Burns was buried in an unmarked grave. But fifteen years later, someone (likely Jane) placed a stone above it. On the stone was carved the Latin word—“Resurgam”—meaning “I shall rise again.

Chapter 10 – Jane as a Teacher at Lowood

The epidemic and deaths at Lowood exposed its deep corruption. Everyone realized Mr. Brocklehurst’s negligence. A new management committee took charge, and gradually the school’s environment improved. In this way, eight years passed. During this time, Jane Eyre showed remarkable success in her studies. To please her teachers, she always came first in exams. Afterwards, she herself began teaching at Lowood.

But one day Miss Temple got married and moved far away. Jane’s heart broke. She, too, felt a call for a new life. She wanted to go out into the world and take on new responsibilities. So she placed an advertisement in the newspaper for a tutor’s job. Within a week, a reply came—Mrs. Fairfax offered her a position. Jane was to go to Thornfield Manor, where she would teach a little girl.

Just at the moment of her departure, Bessie suddenly came to see her. She told Jane the news of the Reed family. Georgiana had tried to elope with a young lord, but her jealous sister Eliza, exposed everything to Mrs. Reed. Meanwhile, John Reed had failed in his studies, wasted money, and disappointed his mother. Finally, Bessie said that Jane was now much more talented, skilled, and successful—far above the Reed children.

Chapter 11 – Arrival at Thornfield Hall

In the darkness of night, Jane Eyre arrived at Thornfield Hall. In the dark, she could see nothing except the outer grandeur of the house. She was welcomed by the kind old woman, Mrs. Fairfax. Passing through the great mansion, she took Jane to a comfortable room. Very soon, Jane understood that Mrs. Fairfax was not the mistress of the house. She was actually the chief housekeeper. The true master was Mr. Rochester, who rarely stayed there. Mrs. Fairfax told her that though Rochester had a strange nature, he was a well-traveled and kind master.

The next day, Jane met her pupil, Adèle Varens. The lively French girl was the daughter of a singer and dancer. Now she was Rochester’s ward. Later, Mrs. Fairfax took Jane on a tour of the house. The ground floor was filled with luxurious furniture. But the third floor was dark, cluttered with old furniture and cast-off things from the past. To Jane, the place seemed mysterious enough for ghosts. Just then, a strange laugh floated down from above. Jane grew frightened. Mrs. Fairfax explained—it was the laugh of Grace Poole. She was a seamstress and servant. Mrs. Fairfax scolded her and warned Jane to remember the instructions carefully.

Chapter 12 – First Meeting with Rochester

Gradually, Jane Eyre grew accustomed to life at Thornfield. She enjoyed the company of lively but spoiled Adèle. Yet she often felt a stifling restlessness. She thought that society wrongly confined people into roles—especially women. All human beings need stimulation and freedom. At times, Jane found comfort walking through the dark corridors of the third floor. Standing there, her imagination seemed to fly. She often heard the strange laugh again and again. She frequently saw Grace Poole moving about, but could not match her plain, rough nature with such eerie laughter.

One winter evening, Jane went out to post a letter. From afar, she heard the sound of a horse. The serious scene made her remember Bessie’s ghost story—of the dreadful spirit “Gytrash,” which sometimes appeared as a horse, sometimes as a dog, to chase travelers. Suddenly, a huge dog really appeared. Jane was startled. Immediately after, she saw a horse and rider, which eased her fear. Yet the horse slipped on the ice and fell. The rider was thrown to the ground. Jane helped him rise. The stern, grave man asked her about her place at Thornfield. Then he mounted and rode off. On returning, Jane heard from the servants that the stranger was none other than Edward Rochester, the true master of Thornfield Hall, who had at last returned.

Chapter 13 – The Drawing Room and the Fortune Teller (A Changed Rochester)

The next evening, Jane Eyre and Adèle joined Mr. Rochester for tea. Rochester was stern and inattentive. He spoke in the tone of command, sometimes even rudely. The discussion turned to Adèle’s studies and Jane’s personal life. Rochester learned that Jane could paint. Curious, he asked to see her work. Jane’s pictures revealed majestic yet lonely visions—a man sinking in a broken sea, a shining face behind stormy clouds, and a dark angel of death beside icy glaciers. These paintings deeply fascinated Rochester.

After the evening gathering, Jane told Mrs. Fairfax that she found Rochester not very kind, even rather harsh. Mrs. Fairfax explained that Rochester’s nature was complicated because his past was full of pain. She said Rochester had inherited Thornfield from his elder brother nine years earlier. Before that, their father had given the entire estate to the elder son. But to make the younger son, Edward Rochester, wealthy as well, the father had arranged a complicated plan. That plan failed, and even today it remains a source of suffering in Rochester’s life. Still, Mrs. Fairfax did not wish to say more. The mystery remained unresolved.

Chapter 14 – Conversation with Rochester

For several days, Jane Eyre did not see Mr. Rochester. One night after dinner, he called Jane and Adèle. He gave Adèle her long-awaited gift—a dress from Paris. Overjoyed, Adèle ran off to play. Then Rochester began a conversation with Jane. He seemed somewhat intoxicated. Jane, as usual, answered him directly. Suddenly, Rochester asked her whether she thought he was handsome. Jane openly said no, though inwardly she admired the depth of his eyes.

They spoke about each other’s nature and about treating one another as equals. Jane felt that sometimes Rochester spoke as though he could read her mind. Describing himself, Rochester said he was a man shaped by many experiences and burdened by misfortune, his muscles hardened like “Indian-rubber.” He hinted vaguely at his past and his plans for reform. Jane was puzzled and stayed silent. At this moment, Adèle returned, happily dancing in her new pink dress. Rochester remarked that Adèle reminded him of her French mother, Céline Varens. He promised Jane that one day he would tell her how and why Adèle had come under his guardianship.

Chapter 15 – Fire in Rochester’s Room

One evening, Mr. Rochester called Jane aside and spoke about his past. Many years earlier in Paris, he had fallen in love with a French singer, Céline Varens. But one day, he caught her with another man. Their relationship ended. In anger, Rochester challenged the man to a duel and wounded him. Céline later claimed that Adèle was Rochester’s daughter. But since there was no resemblance, Rochester doubted it. Still, when Céline abandoned the child, Rochester took pity on her and brought Adèle to England, determined to raise her well.

That night, Jane kept thinking about Rochester’s story. He no longer seemed like a proud aristocrat. She enjoyed talking with him. But as she tried to sleep, Jane heard strange noises—an evil laugh at her door, footsteps going toward the third floor. Terrified, she ran out and saw smoke rising from Rochester’s room. He was in a deep sleep, while the bed curtains were already burning.

Quickly, Jane poured water and put out the flames, saving Rochester’s life. When he awoke, he rushed to the third floor. Returning, he asked Jane if she had heard that sinister laugh before. Jane replied that she had often heard Grace Poole’s laugh. Rochester immediately said, “Exactly, Grace Poole—you are right.” Yet he made Jane promise never to mention the incident to anyone. Overcome with emotion, he expressed his deep gratitude to Jane. He spent the rest of the night on the library sofa, while Jane stayed awake, stirred by new feelings rising in her heart.

Chapter 16 – Jane’s Suspicion About Grace Poole

The next morning, Jane was astonished. The servants believed that the fire had started because Rochester had fallen asleep with a burning candle beside him, and that he himself had awakened and put out the flames. Even more surprising, Grace Poole confirmed this story. Yet she showed no fear or guilt in her manner. When Jane mentioned the laugh, Grace dismissed it as imagination, though she advised Jane to keep her door locked.

A few days later, Jane grew disheartened. Rochester suddenly left for a nearby mansion, where he was to meet a group of aristocratic guests. Among them was the beautiful Blanche Ingram. Jane scolded herself, realizing her attraction to Rochester was a mistake. A woman like her could never hope for such a man. To bring herself back to reality, Jane painted two portraits: one of her own plain and simple face, and the other of Blanche’s graceful beauty. These pictures reminded her of their different social positions and shattered her unrealistic hopes.

Chapter 17 – Arrival of Blanche Ingram at Thornfield

After being absent for a week, Jane Eyre was disheartened when Mrs. Fairfax told her that Mr. Rochester might go to Europe for a whole year. But another week later, new news arrived—Rochester would return within three days, bringing a group of guests with him. Meanwhile, Jane kept watching Grace Poole. She spent most of her time alone on the upper floor, yet behaved quite normally with the other servants. Jane was even more astonished to learn that Grace was paid higher wages than the others. At once, Jane felt that some strange mystery was surely hidden here.

At last, Rochester’s party arrived. Everyone entered the drawing room. Dressed in a French gown, the bright little Adèle moved about among the guests with sparkling eyes. In her plain Quaker-like dress, Jane quietly slipped into a corner. From there, she saw Blanche Ingram, who was indeed as beautiful as Jane had imagined. (“Quakerish frock” means a plain, ornament-free dress.) The money-seeking Blanche immediately directed all her attention to Rochester. Without any attempt to hide it, she mocked Jane loudly, boasting of how many dreadful governesses she had endured. Then she forced Rochester to sing a duet with her.

Chapter 18 – The Party and the Mysterious Fortune Teller

For several days, the guests stayed at Thornfield Hall. Every evening, Jane Eyre had to endure the greedy Blanche Ingram’s constant flirting with Mr. Rochester. One evening, they arranged a charade game. Jane was left out once again. Still, she sensed that, no matter how much Blanche tried, she could not completely captivate Rochester. Yet Jane thought inwardly—perhaps one day Rochester would marry Blanche, whether for social or political reasons, which she could not clearly understand.

Meanwhile, one day Rochester went away on business. Suddenly, an odd gentleman, Mr. Mason, arrived at the house. His vacant, hollow gaze made Jane uneasy. It was revealed that he and Rochester had both been in the West Indies on business. A few nights later, while Rochester was still absent, an old gypsy woman came to the house. She claimed she would tell the fortunes of the guests. Blanche went first. But when she came back from the library, disappointment was written on her face. The other young women whispered in wonder about the strange knowledge of the gypsy woman. Just then, the old woman declared that she now wished to see Jane Eyre in private.

Chapter 19 – The Fortune Teller Turns Out to Be Rochester

Jane Eyre sat alone with the old gypsy woman. Her face was hidden under a large hat. She spoke of Jane’s loneliness and the feelings she kept suppressed. At first, Jane doubted her, but was surprised by her sharp insight. The gypsy said Jane was very close to happiness. She also revealed that Blanche Ingram had been disappointed because she was told that Rochester was not as wealthy as he seemed. Then the gypsy asked Jane whether she was in love. Jane honestly replied, No. She admitted she was alone, but not unhappy. The thought of one day starting her own school gave her joy.

At that moment, the gypsy’s voice grew heavy. From her hand gestures, Jane recognized something familiar. Suddenly, she realized—the old woman was none other than Mr. Rochester in disguise! For a moment, she had thought it might be Grace Poole. Angered at the deception, Jane was indignant but told Rochester about Mr. Mason’s arrival. At once, Rochester was shaken with distress. (In truth, he was trembling from the unease, fear, and secret pressure caused by Mason’s presence.) Jane steadied him. He asked if Jane would abandon him if a scandal arose. Jane firmly promised she would stay by his side. After that, she went and brought Mr. Mason to him.

Chapter 20 – The Strange Guest, Richard Mason

At midnight, Thornfield Hall suddenly shook with a terrible scream. All the guests rushed into the corridor. But Mr. Rochester calmed everyone, saying that a servant had cried out from a nightmare. The guests returned to their rooms. A little later, Rochester secretly knocked at Jane Eyre’s door. He asked for her help. Together they went to the third floor, into Grace Poole’s room. There lay Mr. Mason—his arm torn with knife wounds and deep bites. Jane and Rochester bound his injuries together.

Then Rochester went out to fetch a doctor. Before leaving, he gave strict orders: Jane and Mason must not speak a word. In the dark room, Jane sat alone beside the injured Mason. From the locked chamber in the corridor came sounds—animal-like growls and human moans. Before dawn, Rochester returned with a surgeon. They stitched Mason’s wounds and secretly sent him away, so none of the guests would know.

Afterward, Rochester took Jane into the garden. There, he began to tell a story. The young man in his tale was really a reflection of his own life. In his youth, Rochester had fallen into a mistaken relationship (later revealed as his secret marriage to Bertha Mason). To escape this mistake, he traveled abroad—to France, Italy, Jamaica, and other places. There he lived in worldly pleasures, indulgence, and immoral pursuits, all to cover the pain of his past.

Rochester then asked—if that young man now wanted a new life, to seek redemption by taking a wife in honesty, but was trapped by society’s rules, what should he do? Jane answered calmly—one must look not to men but to God for true freedom. Suddenly, Rochester declared that he would marry Blanche to bring renewal to his life. Then he quickly changed the subject.

Chapter 21 – Return to Gateshead: Mrs. Reed’s Death

One afternoon, a messenger arrived at Thornfield. He brought news—John Reed, drowning in gambling debts, had taken his own life. Meanwhile, Mrs. Reed was on her deathbed, and her last wish was to see Jane Eyre. So Jane set out for Gateshead. There she reunited with the loving Bessie. Their meeting was filled with joy. But the Reed sisters had changed much over time. Eliza had grown stern, disciplined, and devoutly religious. Georgiana remained romantic, absorbed in her appearance, and thrilled by love stories.

Even on her deathbed, Mrs. Reed felt no remorse. She did not ask Jane’s forgiveness for her past cruelty. But on the tenth day, she suddenly called Jane to her side. She revealed a dreadful secret. Three years earlier, Jane’s uncle, John Eyre, a wealthy wine merchant, had wanted to take Jane under his guardianship. But Mrs. Reed had deceived him by writing that Jane had died of fever at Lowood. In this way, she had shut every door to Jane’s advancement. Though Jane was deeply hurt, she tried to reconcile. But Mrs. Reed rejected her. That very night, she died.

Chapter 22 – Reunion with Rochester in the Garden

After Mrs. Reed’s death, Jane stayed at Gateshead for a month to help settle the property. During this time, Georgiana Reed went to London and later married a rich gentleman. Eliza Reed departed for France, joined a convent, and eventually became its Mother Superior. While at Gateshead, Jane received a letter from Mrs. Fairfax. It said that Mr. Rochester had gone to London to buy a new carriage. Jane assumed this was surely preparation for his marriage to Blanche Ingram. Her heart filled with dread, thinking her days at Thornfield were nearly over.

On her way back, Jane suddenly met Rochester. He was driving his new carriage. In a cheerful tone, Rochester said to her—“Tell me, does this not suit Mrs. Rochester perfectly?” Jane’s heart overflowed with joy at his presence. Excitedly, she confessed how happy she was to return. Then, with deep emotion, she admitted—“Wherever you are, that is my home—my only home.”

Chapter 23 – The Proposal

Two weeks after returning to Thornfield, Jane Eyre met Mr. Rochester in the garden. Rochester told her that he had decided to marry Blanche Ingram. He added that he had arranged a governess position for Jane in Ireland. Jane was shaken. She replied that Ireland was very far away and explained that Thornfield was her dearest place. At that, Rochester urged her to stay. (His real intention was to make Jane jealous.)

But Jane firmly declared that she was independent and equal. She reproached Rochester for planning a loveless marriage. Suddenly, Rochester confessed everything. He revealed that he had never intended to marry Blanche—he had only tried to make Jane jealous. Finally, overwhelmed with emotion, he proposed marriage to Jane. At first, Jane thought he was joking. But seeing his determination, she became convinced. Moved by emotion, she accepted his proposal. Just then, the sky changed color, and heavy rain began to fall. The two ran inside, and Rochester sealed the promise with a gentle kiss. That night, a bolt of lightning struck an ancient chestnut tree under which Rochester had proposed to Jane. The tree split into two, standing as an ominous sign of the storm to come.

Chapter 24 – Days of Engagement at Thornfield

Mr. Rochester promised that the wedding would take place within four weeks. When the engagement was announced, Mrs. Fairfax congratulated Jane, though in a very cold manner. She warned Jane that men were not always trustworthy, and marriages between unequal social ranks could be dangerous. Jane felt irritated by Fairfax’s suspicion, though a small trace of doubt lingered in her own heart. At first, she was swept away by joy—it seemed to her as if she had stepped into a fairy tale.

But soon Rochester began showering her with expensive gifts and excessive praise. Jane felt insulted by this. It seemed to her that she was being turned into an object. She firmly declared that she wished to live simply. She would live on her governess’s salary and wear her plain dresses as before. Secretly, Jane resolved to reply to her uncle John Eyre’s letter—the one Mrs. Reed had hidden. The letter said that John Eyre might make Jane his heir. This gave her hope that, at least in terms of class, she might stand equal to Rochester. The wedding preparations went on. Yet Jane resisted Rochester’s romantic advances again and again. She deliberately argued with him, provoked him, even angered him. And yet, in her heart, she worshipped him like a god.

Chapter 25 – Fearful Dreams and the Night Before the Wedding

The wedding day drew near. All preparations for the honeymoon in Europe were complete. During this time, Mr. Rochester went out for some urgent business. While walking alone, Jane saw the old chestnut tree split by lightning. The next day, on the night before the wedding, she told Rochester about some strange events.

First, she had dreamed that she was walking alone on a long, empty road, carrying a crying child in her arms. In the second dream, she was standing inside a ruined Thornfield, still carrying the same child. Suddenly, she stumbled and dropped the child on the ground. Shocked, she awoke from the dream.

When she opened her eyes, she saw a strange woman in her room. The woman had wild hair and a distorted, frightening face. She was rummaging through Jane’s wardrobe. Then she put Jane’s bridal veil on her head, suddenly tore it apart, and crushed it under her feet. When Jane told this to Rochester, he dismissed it, saying it was only a dream. Or if it was real, it must have been Grace Poole’s doing. He promised Jane that he would explain everything after their marriage—“one year and a day” later. That night, frightened, Jane clutched little Adèle and slept in the nursery with the door locked. In the morning, as she left Adèle, her eyes filled with tears.

Chapter 26 – The Broken Wedding (Bertha’s Identity Revealed)

The next morning was the wedding day. In a hurry, Rochester took Jane to the church. In the churchyard, Jane noticed two unfamiliar men. They also entered the ceremony. When the priest asked if anyone objected, one of the strangers stood up and declared that there was an “impediment” to the marriage. Rochester demanded the ceremony continue, but the priest refused.

The man introduced himself as Mr. Briggs, a lawyer from London. He announced that Rochester was already married. Fifteen years ago, he had wed a Creole woman in Jamaica, Bertha Mason.

The other stranger stepped forward. He was none other than Bertha’s brother, Mr. Mason, and he confirmed the truth. Furious, Rochester admitted it was true. But he explained that Bertha had gone mad and was kept locked away on the third floor of Thornfield. He led everyone back to the house. There, Grace Poole stood at the hidden door. In the shadows, a ragged, crazed woman paced back and forth—Bertha Mason. To Jane’s eyes, she looked half-human, half-beast.

Suddenly, Bertha lunged at Rochester. He struggled with her and managed to overpower her. He then explained that before their marriage, his family had concealed Bertha’s madness. Mr. Mason further explained to Jane that he had learned of her marriage from her uncle, John Eyre. John had sent Mason to stop it, but could not come himself, as he was dying of consumption (tuberculosis).

Chapter 27 – Rochester’s Confession and Jane’s Departure

After learning everything, Jane Eyre realized—she had no choice but to leave Thornfield. But as soon as she stepped out of her room, Mr. Rochester stood before her. He begged for forgiveness. Jane stayed silent, though inwardly she forgave him at once. Rochester pleaded that she go with him to France. But Jane firmly refused, because that would make her his mistress, while she wanted honorable love.

Rochester then confessed to his past. He said his father had left all the property to his elder brother. For the younger son, he arranged a business partnership in the West Indies and a marriage with a rich heiress. That woman was Bertha Mason.

Rochester had married her after a short acquaintance. Her beauty and exotic nature had enchanted him. But soon after the marriage, the truth was revealed—Bertha’s mother was insane, and Bertha herself quickly became violent, corrupt, and mad. Then Rochester’s father and brother died. Legally, he could not divorce his wife. So, he kept her hidden on the third floor of Thornfield, guarded by Grace Poole. He himself went abroad. Without a true wife, he became entangled in affairs and indulgences—such as with his mistress Céline Varens. In the end, he grew disgusted with this life—it felt like human beings were being bought and sold.

Returning to England, he brought back Adèle. And then he met Jane Eyre. From the very first moment, he loved her deeply. For a while, Jane thought—perhaps she should stay. In his long, lonely life, he deserved a devoted companion. She also feared she might never have such a chance again. But at the same time, she knew—the only right path was to keep her self-respect. That night, in her dream, she saw her mother’s face. Her mother warned her—“Flee from temptation.” Jane gathered courage. Taking only a few belongings, she quietly left Thornfield. At dawn, she hired a coach and set out alone—toward an unknown destination.

Chapter 28 – Jane’s Flight and the Help of the Rivers Family

After leaving Thornfield, Jane soon ran out of money. The coachman dropped her off and left, while she realized her belongings had been left behind in the carriage. Now utterly destitute, she spent the night under the stars, thinking of God.

The next day, Jane searched for work in the nearby village. But no one would hire her. She even tried to exchange her gloves and handkerchief for food, but was refused. Hunger and shame burned within her. At last, on a farm, she begged to eat the porridge meant for the pigs.

Helpless and weak, Jane wandered on into the unknown. She felt that death might be waiting for her now. Just then, she saw a faint candlelight in the distance. Following it, she reached a house—Moor House. Inside, Mary and Diana Rivers were studying German. When Jane knocked, their servant Hannah mistook her for a suspicious beggar and turned her away. Exhausted, Jane collapsed outside, ready to die. At that very moment, the sisters’ brother, St. John Rivers, returned home. He lifted Jane inside. His sisters gave her food and a dry bed. Jane concealed her true identity and took a new name—Jane Elliott.

Chapter 29 – Life at Moor House: With Diana and Mary

After finding shelter at Moor House, Jane spent three and a half days in a half-unconscious state. On the fourth day, she awoke to find her clothes washed and warm food prepared. Jane complained that on the night she arrived, Hannah had turned her away. Hannah apologized. She then told Jane about the Rivers family. Their father, having suffered business losses, had died three weeks earlier. The sisters—Mary and Diana—were still in school, but would later seek work as governesses. Their brother, St. John, was a poor clergyman. Later, Jane shared a brief history of her own life. However, she did not reveal her name or speak of her former employer. She said she had no relatives in England. Jane requested help in finding work. St. John, though firm, was kind. He promised assistance. The warmhearted Mary and Diana reassured Jane that she could stay with them if she wished.

Chapter 30 – St. John Rivers

Very soon, a friendship grew between Jane Eyre and Mary and Diana Rivers. They read books, talked together, and Jane taught them drawing. They found joy in nature. A month passed this way. Then Mary and Diana left to take governess positions in wealthy families. Before leaving, they mentioned that St. John might become a missionary and go abroad.

St. John, unlike his sisters, was not lively. He was serious, distant, and full of thought. Jane visited his church. Listening to his stern sermons saddened her. In conversation, Jane and St. John realized they were both restless, though in different ways. St. John then suggested Jane take charge of a small school for poor children in Morton. Though the pay and lodging were modest, Jane gladly accepted.

A few days later, a letter arrived. It revealed that their wealthy uncle John had died. But he left nothing to St. John, Mary, or Diana. Instead, he gave his entire fortune to an unknown relative. They explained that this uncle had once driven their father into ruin in business.

Chapter 31 – Jane as a Schoolteacher in Morton

Jane Eyre began her work at the school. She had 20 pupils whose standard of learning was very low. Jane believed that human potential was not limited by class. Still, as a teacher in a small village, she felt somewhat humiliated. She thought—though life now seemed stagnant, she remained grateful. She thanked God—because she had not become Rochester’s mistress. In conversation, St. John said that he, too, had once doubted his vocation. But now he had found his life’s mission. He would become a missionary and go to India. Hard as it was, he firmly believed the path to be noble. One of the school’s benefactors was the wealthy and extraordinarily beautiful Rosamond Oliver. Jane noticed a deep affection between Rosamond and St. John.

Chapter 32 – Rosamond Oliver and St. John’s Conflict

Days passed. Jane Eyre gradually found joy in teaching. Her pupils began to improve. To the villagers, she became beloved and respected. Though her new life was peaceful, dreams of Rochester often disturbed her. The rich and beautiful Rosamond Oliver frequently visited the school. Coincidentally, St. John was always present at those times. Jane realized Rosamond’s presence stirred strong feelings in him.

At home, Jane drew Rosamond’s portrait and gave it to St. John. He gazed at it in admiration for fifteen minutes. Seeing the chance, Jane boldly suggested that he should marry Rosamond. St. John admitted he loved her. But he said Rosamond could not endure the hardships of missionary life. He declared he would not forsake his heavenly goal for earthly happiness. Suddenly, St. John noticed something in the corner of Jane’s drawing paper. Disturbed, he tore off a piece of it. Then, without explanation, he abruptly left the room. Puzzled, Jane dismissed the incident and forgot about it.

Chapter 33 – Jane’s Inheritance and New Family

One snowy night, St. John came to Jane Eyre with a story. To her astonishment, she realized it was actually her own life’s history. At the end, Jane learned an unknown truth: her uncle, John Eyre, had died. He had left her a fortune of 20,000 pounds. After Jane’s disappearance from Thornfield, notices had been circulated everywhere to find her. One of those letters had reached St. John.

Then St. John revealed his full name—St. John Eyre Rivers. His mother had been Jane’s father’s sister. This meant that Mary, Diana, and St. John were Jane’s first cousins. St. John explained that in the corner of Jane’s drawing paper, he had found the name “Jane Eyre.” From that, he had uncovered the truth.

Overjoyed at suddenly finding her own family, Jane was deeply moved. She decided to divide the twenty thousand pounds equally among all four of them. She wished that Mary, Diana, and St. John might gain financial independence from this wealth. More than that, she longed for they to live close together and share their lives as one family.

Chapter 34 – St. John’s Proposal

During the winter holidays, Jane Eyre closed her school. She spent a joyful Christmas with Mary and Diana, who had returned from their jobs. At this time, St. John became even colder and more distant. When asked about Rosamond Oliver, he said that she had married a wealthy gentleman. One day, St. John found Jane studying German. He suggested she should instead learn Hindustani, the language he was preparing for his missionary work in India. Jane agreed. Yet she felt that St. John was slowly exerting a strange influence over her, one that chilled her heart.

In the summer, one day, St. John took Jane walking in the hills. There, he said, she possessed extraordinary qualities. Then, suddenly, he proposed to her, asking her to marry him and accompany him to India as a missionary’s wife. Jane felt that her “heart was silent.” She knew she could never be happy as St. John’s wife. She replied that she would go to India, but only as his sister. Hearing her refusal, St. John declared that rejecting his marriage proposal was the same as rejecting Christian faith.

Chapter 35 – Jane’s Inner Conflict and Rochester’s Call

St. John continued trying to persuade Jane Eyre to marry him. He explained that missionary work in India was his great life’s calling. Jane knew that India’s heat and hard labor would soon destroy her health. Death did not frighten her, but she longed to experience true love in life. Diana clearly advised Jane not to go. In her view, St. John only wanted Jane as an instrument for his great mission.

One evening after dinner, St. John read a prayer with deep emotion. His voice had such power that Jane almost agreed to marry him. Just then, she suddenly heard a distant call: “Jane! Jane! Jane!” It was Rochester’s voice. She ran outside and declared that she was resolved—she would return to Rochester.

Chapter 36 – Return to Thornfield – The Fire and Bertha’s Death

As Jane prepared to return to Thornfield, St. John slipped a note under her door. He warned her not to fall into temptation. Though her mind was troubled, Jane stood firm. She trusted that the voice and the feeling she had experienced were real. On the journey toward Thornfield, Jane reflected on how her life had changed. A year earlier, she had been poor and alone. Now she had both family and fortune.

When she reached Thornfield, Jane was shocked. The entire house was in ruins, reduced to ashes. Only blackened remains stood. From an innkeeper, she learned the story. Bertha had escaped and set fire to Jane’s old room. As the flames spread, Rochester rescued all the servants. At last, Bertha stood on the roof, laughing madly, and then leaped into the fire. As the house collapsed, Rochester was gravely injured. He lost one hand, and his eyesight was gone forever. Now he lived in a nearby small house called Ferndean.

Chapter 37 – Reunion with Rochester at Ferndean

Deep in the forest, Jane arrived at Ferndean. In the courtyard, she saw Rochester. His body was still strong, but his face showed despair and sorrow. He refused the help of a servant. Hesitantly, he walked around the yard and then returned indoors. Speaking with the servants at the door, Jane entered the house. When Rochester asked for a glass of water, she herself brought it to him. Hearing Jane’s voice, Rochester at first thought it was a ghostly vision. But when he touched her hand, he realized she was truly there. Overcome with emotion, he embraced her.

Jane told him about her newfound wealth. Playfully, she mentioned St. John’s name to stir a touch of jealousy in Rochester and lighten his grief. Rochester spoke of his helplessness and urged Jane to leave him. But Jane declared that she loved him even more now and would never leave him again. At last, Rochester proposed marriage. Jane joyfully accepted. Rochester admitted that he had suffered the punishment of pride. Now he prayed every day. One night while calling on God for help, he had unintentionally cried out—“Jane! Jane! Jane!” At that very moment, he thought he had heard Jane’s reply. Jane was moved by their mysterious connection. She promised to be Rochester’s “comfort and guide.” Holding his hand, she led him back into the house.

Chapter 38 – Conclusion: “Reader, I married him”

The chapter begins with the famous line—“Reader, I married him.” At Ferndean, Jane and Rochester were quietly married. They lived together in perfect harmony. Tirelessly, Jane guided her husband, read to him, and described the surrounding nature. St. John never wrote a word about their marriage. But Mary and Diana were very happy.

Jane visited little Adèle and found her unhappy at a strict school. She moved Adèle to a kinder school near home. With a good English education, Adèle’s “French faults” disappeared. She grew into a polite and principled young woman.

Two years after the marriage, Rochester regained partial sight in one eye. At that very time, their first child was born—a son with the dark brilliance of Rochester’s eyes. Ten years later, Jane told her readers that both Diana and Mary had married good and affectionate husbands and often visited her. St. John had gone alone to India. In his final letter, he foresaw his own death. Jane knew she would not receive another. She was not sorrowful, for St. John had fulfilled God’s work. She quoted his last words: “Lord Jesus, receive me soon.”