Diana and Mary Rivers' Fates

Jane Eyre

Follows the lives of Diana and Mary Rivers, from governesses to happily married women, thanks to Jane's shared inheritance.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
Governesses in ExileGovernesses in Exile
A Hard Life Working for Others Diana and Mary work as governesses in wealthy families, where they are treated as inferiors. They are intelligent and cultured but have no fortune. Love for Home They cherish their time at Moor House, their ancestral home. They are close to each other and to their brother St. John. Jane's Friendship Jane becomes their friend and shares their intellectual interests. They form a deep bond.
Marriage and HappinessMarriage and Happiness
A New Life Financial Independence Jane shares her inheritance, giving each cousin five thousand pounds. Diana and Mary are now free to marry. Diana's Marriage Diana marries Captain Fitzjames, a naval officer. They have a loving relationship. Mary's Marriage Mary marries a clergyman, Mr. Wharton, a friend of St. John. Both sisters find happiness and security.
before Jane's arrival
after Jane's inheritance