The moral in Jane Eyre is the paramount importance of maintaining one's moral integrity, self-respect, and spiritual independence in the face of societal pressures, emotional impulses, and material temptations, ultimately leading to genuine happiness and an equitable partnership.
The Enduring Moral of Jane Eyre
Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre is a profound exploration of an individual's journey toward self-discovery and fulfillment, deeply rooted in a firm moral compass. The novel asserts that true happiness and a meaningful life are achieved not through societal conformity or succumbing to passion alone, but by adhering to an intrinsic sense of right and wrong, even when it demands great personal sacrifice.
Integrity and Independence
At its heart, the moral teaching of Jane Eyre champions the power of individual integrity. Jane, as the protagonist, continually faces situations that test her principles:
- Poverty vs. Dignity: Despite her impoverished background and subservient roles, Jane consistently refuses to compromise her self-respect or allow others to demean her. She values her inherent worth above material comfort.
- Passion vs. Principle: Her most significant moral crucible is her relationship with Mr. Rochester. Upon discovering his existing marriage, Jane chooses to leave him, despite her profound love and the agony of separation. This decision exemplifies her commitment to a higher moral code, prioritizing legal and religious sanctity over her passionate feelings. As the narrative reveals, Jane abides by established rules, stating, "I will keep the law given by God; sanctioned by man." This highlights that her moral integrity is deeply rooted in established legal, religious, and social laws, rather than being swayed by her own immediate desires or emotions.
- Duty vs. Desire: Later, when pressured by St. John Rivers to marry him for missionary duty, Jane again asserts her independence. She recognizes that such a union would lack genuine affection and personal fulfillment, sacrificing her own identity for a cause she doesn't fully embrace in that specific context. Her refusal underscores the moral that marriage should be a union of equals, based on mutual respect and love, not merely duty or societal expectation.
Adherence to Moral and Spiritual Law
The novel emphasizes that Jane's moral fortitude stems from a deep-seated belief system. Her decisions are not arbitrary but are guided by what she perceives as divine law and the accepted societal norms that align with fundamental justice. This adherence protects her from corruption and exploitation, ensuring her dignity remains intact.
To illustrate Jane's commitment to these principles, consider her pivotal choices:
| Moral Dilemma | Jane's Choice | Underlying Moral Principle |
|---|---|---|
| Staying with Rochester | Leaves, despite her love | Upholding the sanctity of marriage; obedience to divine/social law |
| Marrying St. John Rivers | Refuses, despite societal expectation | Prioritizing true affection and personal fulfillment over duty/reputation |
| Accepting Charity | Works for her living, seeks independence | Maintaining self-reliance and dignity; refusing dependence |
The Path to True Happiness
Ultimately, Jane Eyre suggests that living a life guided by strong moral principles leads to a richer, more authentic form of happiness. Jane's journey culminates in a marriage with Rochester that is equitable, based on mutual respect, love, and understanding—a partnership achieved only after both individuals have undergone significant personal growth and established their moral foundations. Her independence and integrity allow her to enter this union as an equal, rather than a subordinate.
The moral, therefore, is not merely about right or wrong actions, but about the profound inner strength gained from unwavering adherence to one's values, even when the path is arduous. It teaches that true liberation and contentment come from within, through self-respect and the courage to live by one's own, divinely-informed, ethical code.
