Jane Fairfax: From Governess Prospect to Beloved Wife

Jane Fairfax's struggle with her secret engagement and her eventual rise to happiness.

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Jane's Background

Jane's Background An Orphan of Good Family Jane Fairfax is the orphaned daughter of a lieutenant. She has been raised by Colonel Campbell and given an excellent education. Her Fate as a Governess Despite her accomplishments, Jane has no fortune and must eventually become a governess. She has resolved to begin at age twenty-one.

Secret Engagement

Secret Engagement A Promise Made Jane becomes secretly engaged to Frank Churchill at Weymouth. The engagement is hidden from everyone due to Frank's dependence on his aunt. The Burden of Secrecy Jane suffers greatly from the concealment, unable to confide in her family. She must maintain a cold exterior.

The Pianoforte Gift

The Pianoforte Gift A Loving Gesture Frank secretly sends a pianoforte to Jane, which causes her both joy and anxiety. She must pretend ignorance. Suspicion Aroused Emma and others suspect the gift is from Frank, but Jane remains silent, adding to the tension.

The Quarrel and Despair

The Quarrel and Despair Frank's Behavior Frank's flirtation with Emma at Box Hill deeply hurts Jane. She decides to break off the engagement and accepts a governess position. Illness and Sorrow Jane becomes ill with a nervous fever, overwhelmed by her situation. She is determined to endure her fate.

Reconciliation and Marriage

Reconciliation and Marriage Frank's Plea Frank realizes his mistake and reconciles with Jane after Mrs. Churchill's death. He gains his uncle's approval. A Bright Future Jane is released from her governess contract and will marry Frank. She is finally able to be happy and open about her love.

revealed early in her visit to Highbury

from the previous summer at Weymouth

when the instrument arrives at her grandmother's house

after the Box Hill picnic

after Mrs. Churchill's death, when Frank reveals the engagement