English & Literature

Why is Jane Eyre considered a Victorian model

support from the novel Jane Eyre

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It is considered a Victorian novel since it is set during that time, but also because the author is a product of that era. We see aspects of this in the novel as Jane is viewed by nearly everyone she comes into contact with as a liability because she is not marriagable nor does she come from any sort of wealth. We also see this repeated when they send her to learn how to become a governess. Her choices were limited, as were the women of the day and age: governess, nun, serving girl, or prostitute. Lastly, the sentiment that a man will rescue the damsel plays out at the end of the tale. For many reasons Jane does not believe that she'll end up with Edward and these reasons stem from the Victorian view of class. She is beneath him in class and therefore not a suitable match for Edward. He, himself, attempts to deny the feelings he has for her for the exact same reasons.