Miss Temple's Mentorship

Follows the role of Maria Temple as Jane's mentor and mother figure at Lowood, her support during the typhus epidemic, and her departure which prompts Jane to seek a new life.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

First Impression of Miss Temple

A Gracious Presence The Superintendent Jane sees Miss Temple for the first time in the schoolroom. She is tall, fair, and stately, with a benignant expression. Jane feels an immediate sense of admiration and awe. A Kind Act After the burnt porridge breakfast, Miss Temple orders a lunch of bread and cheese for the hungry girls, taking responsibility herself. This small act of kindness wins Jane's gratitude. A Model of Grace Miss Temple teaches geography and music with authority and gentleness. Jane observes that she is above the other teachers in knowledge and character. Miss Temple becomes a beacon of hope in the dreary school.

Defending Jane

A Champion Appears The Private Inquiry After Jane is publicly shamed, Miss Temple takes her aside and listens to her story. She writes to Mr. Lloyd to verify Jane's account. Her careful, just approach contrasts with Brocklehurst's harshness. The Exoneration A week later, Miss Temple assembles the school and announces that Jane is cleared of all charges. Jane's reputation is restored. Miss Temple's support gives Jane the confidence to continue. A Mother Figure Miss Temple becomes a surrogate mother to Jane, offering guidance and affection. Jane learns from her example of calm authority and moral integrity.

Miss Temple's Marriage and Departure

A Loss and a Turning Point The Wedding Miss Temple marries a clergyman, the Rev. Mr. Nasmyth, and leaves Lowood. Jane watches her depart, feeling that a prop has been withdrawn. The serene atmosphere Miss Temple created vanishes with her. Jane's Transformation With Miss Temple gone, Jane feels the stirring of old emotions. She realizes she has been living a borrowed tranquility. The desire for a wider world reawakens. The Decision to Leave Jane decides to advertise for a new position. Miss Temple's departure marks the end of Jane's childhood and the beginning of her quest for independence.

Jane's first morning at Lowood

after Mr. Brocklehurst's denunciation

after eight years at Lowood