Beginning

The best part about this book so far is Jane’s random mentioning of exotic places and diverse cultures. I really enjoy when little images, such as Jane sitting “cross-legged, like a Turk”, or her love for stories involving Arabian tales. As a young girl, she seems very perceptive and sharp in the mind, which, as the protagonist, makes her interesting and refreshing. Jane appears to not tolerate a lot of crap, which is always entertaining for the reader. Yes, she deals with her cousin’s abusiveness, but only because she is afraid and unjustly accused of being wicked by her aunt. When Jane finally calls her aunt out for hypocrisy and for ruining her future chance for happiness, the manor in which she did it was perfect, and Jane seemed very mature for her age while she yelled at her aunt. I really enjoy reading about Jane’s skepticism with faith, especially the scene when the righteous Brocklehurst. Jane is a girl after my own heart telling the fanatic that if she’s going to go to hell, then she might as well live forever. It is enjoyable to see her character, and Jane’s already very developed mind, it will be interesting to view how she evolves as a protagonist. As for the other characters, John Reed is a complete waste of space and breathable air. What a jerk, I know Jane isn’t the most attractive girl in the household, but all of these punishments John deals out are abusive and uncalled for. Her family is harsh, her cousins spoiled rotten, and her aunt is a wicked witch. As far as family goes, Bronte seems to show a slight distaste and bitterness for it. The only character that shows affection is Bessie, and even her love is slightly strained. Also, the male characters are chaffing and usually a negative influence in Jane’s life, such as Brocklehurst and John. I wonder how that will shift and develop.