Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë's groundbreaking novel published in 1847 under the pseudonym Currer Bell, sparked considerable controversy upon its release due to its radical departure from conventional Victorian literature and societal norms.
Core Reasons for Controversy
The novel's contentious reception stemmed from several key elements that challenged the prevailing sensibilities of the 19th century. Reviewers and readers found Jane Eyre provocative for its unconventionalism, perceived immorality, passionate exchanges, and anti-authoritative and anti-Christian tendencies. Additionally, some criticized the improbabilities within the storyline.
1. Unconventionalism and Immorality
Jane Eyre presented a female protagonist unlike many others of her time. Jane, an orphaned governess, is fiercely independent, intelligent, and possesses a strong moral compass that often conflicts with societal expectations. Her refusal to passively accept her lot and her outspoken nature were seen as highly unconventional for a woman in Victorian society.
- Defiance of Gender Norms: Jane's pursuit of emotional and intellectual equality, rather than solely a domestic role, challenged the ideal of the submissive Victorian woman.
- Moral Ambiguity: Some critics found Jane's internal struggles and her decision-making—particularly her initial willingness to marry a man who was already married—to be morally questionable, even though she ultimately makes a righteous choice.
2. Passionate Exchanges
The intense emotional and intellectual bond between Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, and Jane's overt expression of her passionate nature, was shocking to many readers. Victorian literature often portrayed women as demure and reserved, particularly in their romantic feelings.
- Unbridled Emotion: Jane's capacity for deep love, anger, and defiance was depicted with an intensity that was considered "unfeminine" and even "coarse" by some critics.
- Directness in Love: The frankness of the dialogue and the raw emotion between the lovers defied the polite, often indirect, romantic conventions of the era.
3. Anti-Authoritative and Anti-Christian Tendencies
The novel’s critique of established authority figures and certain religious practices also fueled the controversy.
- Challenging Authority: Jane frequently questions and defies figures of authority, from the cruel Mrs. Reed and Mr. Brocklehurst at Lowood School to the rigid St. John Rivers. This defiance was seen as an affront to the social hierarchy and traditional respect for authority.
- Critique of Hypocrisy: The portrayal of hypocritical or overly zealous religious figures, such as Mr. Brocklehurst, led some to believe the novel was anti-Christian. While Jane herself possesses deep moral and spiritual convictions, her rejection of dogmatic and oppressive forms of Christianity was misinterpreted by some as a broader dismissal of faith.
4. Improbabilities in the Storyline
Beyond its thematic and character-driven controversies, some critics also pointed out perceived plot holes or coincidences that stretched credulity.
- Convenient Plot Devices: Elements like Jane's sudden inheritance, the convenient death of her uncle, or Rochester's blinding and the fire at Thornfield were sometimes dismissed as improbable or overly melodramatic.
- Gothic Elements: The novel's incorporation of gothic elements, such as the mystery surrounding Bertha Mason and the supernatural undertones, could also be seen as adding to its "improbabilities" for those who preferred a more realistic narrative.
Summary of Controversial Aspects
| Aspect of Controversy | Why It Was Controversial in the Victorian Era |
|---|---|
| Unconventional Protagonist | Jane Eyre's independence, strong will, and rejection of societal norms for women were seen as radical. |
| "Immorality" | Jane's passionate nature and her defiance of rigid moral codes were deemed scandalous. |
| Passionate Content | The explicit depiction of intense emotional and romantic exchanges between Jane and Rochester was deemed inappropriate for the time. |
| Anti-Authoritarianism | The novel's critique of oppressive authority figures and social hierarchy was seen as disruptive. |
| "Anti-Christian" Elements | The condemnation of hypocritical religious practices and Jane's independent spirituality were misinterpreted as an attack on faith. |
| Plot Improbabilities | Elements such as convenient coincidences and gothic melodrama were criticized for lack of realism. |
Despite these criticisms, Jane Eyre has endured as a classic, celebrated for its literary merit, psychological depth, and pioneering depiction of a strong, independent woman. Its controversial reception ultimately underscores its revolutionary impact on literature and its challenge to Victorian sensibilities.
