Eliza Reed's Path to the Convent

Follows Eliza Reed's rigid, ascetic life and her decision to become a nun, contrasting with her sister Georgiana's frivolity.

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Eliza's Character

A Cold Formalist Daily Routine Eliza is methodical and severe. She spends her time in prayer, accounting, and gardening. She has no warmth or affection for her family. Conflict with Georgiana Eliza despises her sister's vanity. She reveals that she ruined Georgiana's chance to elope with a lord. The sisters are estranged. Plans for the Future Eliza announces she will enter a convent in France. She is drawn to the order and discipline of religious life.

Eliza Takes the Veil

A Life of Seclusion Departure Eliza leaves for a convent near Lisle. She becomes a nun and eventually the superior. She endows the convent with her fortune. Jane's Comment Jane notes that Eliza's vocation suits her cold nature. She finds a niche where her rigidity is valued. Final State Eliza lives a quiet, ordered life, cut off from the world. She is content in her way, but lacks human warmth.

during Jane's visit to Gateshead

after Mrs. Reed's death