The Victorian Era was a time when religion was a major social and moral issue. Although Charlotte Bronte was raised in a religious home, she criticized some aspects of religion, just like other authors. However, she was a spiritual and religious person all her life, much like Jane Eyre. Jane Eyre shows Bronte’s faith and critics of some of her church’s injustices.
Bronte uses subtlety of description to highlight her dissatisfaction towards the Church of England. Jane first met Mr. Brocklehurst, Lowood’s wealthy and influential owner. He says “humility is an American grace,” but his family is lavishly dressed in velvet, leather, and furs. This particular passage can be viewed closely to see how Bronte uses subtlety. Jane’s innocent and questioning observations are what brings out Bronte’s frustration with these men. Brocklehurst’s tirade on the children serves another critical purpose. It shows how evil and ugly Bronte’s doctrines — used to control, manipulate, and subject them – are. Brocklehurst’s intimidation of Jane with the notions about hell and punishment serves a critical purpose. Jane meets Helen Burns and Miss Temple who, according to her students, are genuine examples of Christian values. Jane finds a side of religion she had never seen before in Helen. She is filled with love and hope. Jane resists those who unfairly punish her, despite Helen’s soft and passive approach to “turning on the other cheek”. Jane’s belief system may not be very Christian-like. However, Bronte uses Jane to help her develop her willful character and strong will to adhere to her beliefs. Jane is forced to see that Helen and her doctrine are foils to Jane. Jane tries to get rid of the Christian liabilities. After she finds herself and has gained confidence, she can accept her beliefs and refuse to conform to the preconceived notions and mentalities of the Church.
Jane, a young woman, has grown into herself and overcome the many difficulties she faces. Jane then meets St. John Rivers. He is perhaps the most disciplined Christian I have ever read. He is a fascinating character because of his uncompromising and indisputable beliefs on religion. Jane notes that while he is an active member of the clergy as well as in missionary work Jane believes he is still a cold and uncompromising believer. He is an unloving man. Bronte uses Bronte’s character to portray a completely different picture of religion’s effects on men. Brocklehurst simply sees his obligations to God as essential and doesn’t seem to take the time to appreciate life and love. Jane refused to marry St. John, knowing that, even though he might be content with the reward in Heaven, she is determined that she will find her Heaven here on Earth.
Jane, as well as the beliefs she believes in, is essential. Jane has learned a lot from the characters in her past. Bronte’s personal psychology will likely have inspired the novel. Jane rejects religion as intimidation and instead condemns it and focuses on love. Bronte’s clever description has effectively communicated her point. By using the diverse characters in her novel, she is capable of criticizing any form religion that doesn’t emphasize forgiveness and/or love.