Jane Eyre - Chapter 17 Study Guide
This study guide focuses on key elements of Chapter 17, the wedding day and its shocking interruption.
Themes / Big Ideas
- Deception & Secrets: The chapter is entirely built around the revelation of a massive secret – Mr. Rochester’s existing marriage. This highlights the theme of deception and how hidden truths can shatter illusions.
- Social Class & Status: Bertha Mason’s background as a Creole woman and the societal implications of marrying someone from a different culture/class are crucial. The secrecy surrounding her marriage speaks to the prejudices of the time.
- Madness & Confinement: Bertha’s portrayal as a “lunatic” raises questions about the treatment of mental illness and the societal need to confine those deemed "different."
- The Ideal vs. Reality: Jane’s romantic expectations of marriage and a happy future are brutally dismantled, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of life.
- Power Dynamics: Mr. Rochester’s control over Jane is evident throughout the chapter, culminating in his attempt to force a bigamous marriage. The power imbalance is starkly revealed.
- Morality & Justice: The chapter forces a consideration of moral boundaries and the legality/ethics of Mr. Rochester’s actions. The intervention by Briggs represents a sense of justice seeking to be served.
- Isolation & Loneliness: Jane is increasingly isolated as the truth unfolds, stripped of her hopes and left alone to grapple with the devastating consequences.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Tarried | Verb | Stayed longer than expected; delayed. |
| Blond | Adjective | Pale yellowish color, often referring to hair. |
| Resolute | Adjective | Firmly determined; unwavering. |
| Grimly | Adverb | Stern, forbidding, or severe in manner. |
| Impatience | Noun | Lack of patience; restlessness. |
| Marshal | Verb | Arrange and lead in an orderly manner. |
| Fain | Adverb | Gladly; willingly. |
| Quivered | Verb | Trembled or shook rapidly. |
| Spasmodic | Adjective | Occurring in sudden bursts or spasms. |
| Mementoes | Noun | Objects serving as reminders of the past. |
| Conjecture | Noun | An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. |
| Surplice | Noun | A white vestment worn by clergy. |
| Intention | Noun | A purpose or plan. |
| Impediment | Noun | Obstacle; hindrance. |
| Allegation | Noun | A claim or assertion, often without proof. |
| Insuperable | Adjective | Impossible to overcome. |
| Disavowed | Verb | Denied or rejected responsibility for. |
| Riveted | Verb | Fixed firmly; held securely. |
| Corpulent | Adjective | Stout or obese. |
| Cunning | Adjective | Sly, clever, and deceitful. |
| Hyena | Noun | A wild animal known for its scavenging behavior. |
| Throttle | Verb | To choke or strangle. |
| Pinioned | Verb | Restrained with ropes or chains. |
| Acrid | Adjective | Bitter, sharp, and stinging. |
| Desolate | Adjective | Barren or empty; feeling grief and loneliness. |
- Eddying: Moving in a circular pattern, like currents of water.
Quotes to Look For
- “Lingerer!” he said, “my brain is on fire with impatience, and you tarry so long!” – Demonstrates Rochester’s controlling nature and his expectation of immediate obedience.
- “Fair as a lily, and not only the pride of his life, but the desire of his eyes.” – Highlights Rochester’s possessive and objectifying view of Jane.
- “I know not whether the day was fair or foul; in descending the drive, I gazed neither on sky nor earth: my heart was with my eyes; and both seemed migrated into Mr. Rochester’s frame.” – Shows Jane's complete absorption in Rochester and her lack of awareness of the world around her.
- “Am I cruel in my love?” he said. “Delay an instant: lean on me, Jane.” – A manipulative attempt to control Jane through guilt and affection.
- “That is my wife,” said he. “Such is the sole conjugal embrace I am ever to know—such are the endearments which are to solace my leisure hours!” – The shocking revelation and Rochester’s cynical acceptance of his fate.
- “I was in my own room as usual—just myself, without obvious change: nothing had smitten me, or scathed me, or maimed me. And yet where was the Jane Eyre of yesterday?—where was her life?—where were her prospects?” – Captures Jane’s disorientation and the devastating loss of her hopes.
- “A Christmas frost had come at midsummer; a white December storm had whirled over June…” – A powerful metaphor for the destruction of Jane’s happiness.
- “Real affection, it seemed, he could not have for me; it had been only fitful passion: that was balked; he would want me no more.” – Jane’s realization of the true nature of Rochester's feelings.
- “Be not far from me, for trouble is near: there is none to help.” – Reflects Jane’s despair and her sense of isolation.
This study guide should help you analyze the key elements of Chapter 17 and understand its significance within the broader context of Jane Eyre. Remember to consider the symbolism, character development, and thematic implications as you read.