Like Jane's life, Charlotte lost both of her parents at an early age, she lived in a fairly sheltered and sequestered life as a child. Both Jane and Charlotte were raised by a cold and harsh Aunt, attended a harsh and strict school, and Mr. Broclehurst parallels the headmaster at Bronte's old school. Charlotte's sisters died shortly after returning home from the school, from which she is sure to have derived the character of Helen.
