The Conflict Between Duty and Love (St. John)

Examines Jane's struggle between the duty urged by St. John and her own desire for love and personal fulfillment.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

St. John's Call to Duty

The Missionary's Demand The Proposal St. John asks Jane to marry him and go to India. He presents it as a divine calling. Jane respects him but does not love him. The Pressure St. John uses religious arguments and emotional coldness to persuade her. He makes her feel guilty for refusing. Jane's Doubt Jane wavers, tempted by the idea of a purposeful life. She prays for guidance. Her heart, however, remains with Rochester.

The Supernatural Intervention

The Mysterious Call Hearing Rochester's Voice Jane hears Rochester's voice calling her name. She interprets it as a sign from God. Her doubt vanishes. The Decision She refuses St. John definitively. She chooses love over duty. The conflict is resolved. The Aftermath Jane leaves Moor House to find Rochester. St. John is disappointed but continues his path alone.

at Moor House

the night before St. John's departure