Jane Eyre Sexism - 1879 Words

In the cases of Jane Austens novel Pride and Prejudice and Emily Brontes Jane Eyre, the ideals of romantic love are very much the same. In both 19th century novels, womens wants and needs are rather simplified. However, this could also be said for the roles and ideals of the male characters. While it was obvious that this era was responsible for a large amount of anti-female sexism in society and the economy, can it also be said that male-female partnerships were simplified from the male perspective? br brIn Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice, it is widely agreed that the character of Jane Bennet is, in all aspects, the perfect 19th century woman. She has beauty, charm, manners, a little intelligence (but not too much), and is very†¦show more content†¦br brObviously, any time one person is more of an ideal than a human to their lover, the relationship is not well. Jane wants Rochester to let her be herself after the marriage, and she believes he will give in on this and other points. In this novel, Rochester is shown to portray a male trait of wanting to control her. Rochester argues with Jane whether or not she will dress and act as he wants when they are married. This part of the story shows a sometimes-common trait in women of being overly optimistic in a relationship with a man. It also shows a sometimes-common trait in men of being overly possessive and jealous. This trait can exist in either of the sexes, however. br brIn conclusion, a few things should be stipulated when thinking about possible sexist overtones toward men and women in 19th century novels. First, to say this does not undermine the obvious and quite definite struggle of women to obtain social and economic equality. Women have always been seen in society as somewhat below men, which is the epitome of sexism. However, it can also be said that mens roles and views were simplified to such an extent as to show some semblance of sexism. This can be seen in either Pride and Prejudice or Jane Eyre. br brAlso, in a discussion of male-female loving relationships, one must include the science of evolution. The ways in which living organisms develop over a great period of time is important to our understanding ofShow MoreRelatedSexism in Jane Eyre1870 Words   |  8 Pagesor social status) had only one remaining position, to become a governess. Charlotte Brontà «, through her protagonist Jane Eyre, clearly depicts the struggles of an indigent young woman who is forced into being a governess. The tale of Jane Eyre is clearly articulated by Adrienne Rich in her essay entitled â€Å"Jane Eyre: The Temptations of a Motherless Woman,† when she states that Jane wants to â€Å"choose her life with dignity, integrity, and pride† (471). Even though Brontà « depicts a woman who will notRead More Sexism Exposed in Charlotte Brontes Jane Eyre Essay1457 Words   |  6 PagesSexism Exposed in Brontà «s Jane Eyre       The Victorian era in England marked a period of unprecedented technological, scientific, political, and economic advancement.   By the 1840s, the English had witnessed remarkable industrial achievements including the advent of the railways and the photographic negative.   They had witnessed the expansion of the Empire, and, as a result, were living in a time of great economic stability.   Yet they had also seen thousands of people starving-and dying-dueRead MoreEssay about Jane Eyre: The Effect of a Patriarchal Society 1721 Words   |  7 PagesCharlotte Brontà « composed her novel Jane Eyre during the Victorian era; a period of history where Patriarchy set the expectations of men and women. The effect of this social system resulted in women suffering discrimination simply because of their gender. 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