Inequality of Social Class Jane Eyre

The Reed Family Jane learns about the power of economic and social status during her time with her cousins and aunt. “You have no business taking our books… you have no money; your father left you none; you ought to beg” John is making the point that because Jane is not as fortunate as his own family, that she is a lesser person and should be treated differently.

Mr. Rochester at Thornfield When Jane arrives at Thornfield and asks about Mr. Rochester’s personality, Mrs. Fairfax only comments on his status within the household. “Mr. Rochester was Mr. Rochester in her eyes; a gentleman, a landed proprietor—nothing more: she inquired and searched no further” This frustrates Jane as Mr. Rochester is only seen for his status within society, rather than being known or acknowledged for what his personality and identity is.

Tackling Social Inequality Before leaving Thornfield, Jane tells Rochester that their differences in wealth and social stature doesn’t make them any different as people. “Do you think because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! – I have as much heart and as much soul as you – and full as much heart! And if God gifted me with some beauty and much wealth, I should have made it as hard for you to leave me, as it is for me to leave you” Jane doesn’t necessarily want to leave Rochester but feels that she has to go away and prove herself in the world, to try and bridge the gap between her and Rochester's social status.

Inevitability of Social Class Structures Jane does leave Rochester as she cannot marry him as his equal. However, she only returns to him when she inherits a large sum of money (£20 000) from her uncle as it allows her to marry Rochester as his equal. Although Jane does attempt to tackle the social inequalities of the time, she is ultimately only allowed to do as she pleases, freely, when she does become wealthy.