The Theme of Home and Belonging

Traces Jane's search for a place where she truly belongs, from Gateshead to Ferndean.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

An Outcast at Gateshead

No Home Alienation Jane is treated as an interloper at Gateshead. She has no place in the family. She longs to escape. The Red-Room The red-room symbolizes her imprisonment and lack of belonging. She is a discord in the house. Departure Leaving Gateshead is a relief. She hopes to find a home elsewhere.

Lowood as a Temporary Home

A Harsh Shelter Institutional Life Lowood provides shelter and education but little warmth. Jane finds companionship with Helen and Miss Temple. A Sense of Purpose Jane becomes a teacher and gains a role. She feels useful but not fully at home. The Need to Move On After Miss Temple leaves, Lowood no longer feels like home. Jane seeks a new place.

Thornfield as a Promise

A Glimpse of Paradise A Pleasant Place Jane enjoys her work and the beauty of Thornfield. She feels valued by Mrs. Fairfax and Adele. Love and Belonging Rochester's love makes Thornfield feel like home. Jane imagines a future there. The Shattering The revelation destroys her dream. She must leave to preserve her integrity.

Marsh End and Family

A True Home Rescue and Kinship The Rivers family gives Jane shelter and love. She discovers she has cousins. She finally has a family. Moor House Jane helps restore Moor House and prepares it for her cousins' return. She feels a sense of ownership and belonging. The Choice Despite this, her heart is with Rochester. She leaves to find him, but she knows she has a home to return to.

Ferndean as Final Home

A Home at Last A Quiet Haven Ferndean is a secluded, peaceful place. Jane and Rochester make it their home. Family Jane has a husband, a son, and visits from her cousins. She is surrounded by love. Fulfillment Jane's long search for home ends. She has found where she belongs.

childhood

eight years

during Jane's stay

after flight

after marriage