The Realization of Passion in Jane Eyre
             The Realization of Passion in Jane Eyre
             It is believed that we are born with a predestined personality . Our spiritual
             individuality is just as much a product of our genetic makeup as the color of our skin
             our eyes. With our soul firmly planted , we can then build upon this basis as we are
             educated of the world. The social climate and cultural atmosphere shape our
             personalities, however, it is the people in our lives who have the greatest influence.
             Charlotte Bronte's novel Jane Eyre reveals this idea by the development of the
             protagonist. Through a series of character foils , Bronte expresses her idea of
             self-development and growth of the human spirit by contrasting passion with reason. By
             my interpretation of the novel, Bronte suggests that in one's life time, they will
             a number of people and experiences that will arouse enough emotion in them to have the
             power to change their direction in life. St. John Rivers plays one of these life
             foils to Jane Eyre. His confidence, devotion and reason intrigue Jane almost enough to
             silence her inner passionate spirit , but it is the forces of nature that prove to be
             The life path of a Victorian woman was somewhat limited in it's direction and
             expression of individuality. Jane Eyre strongly adheres to the Victorian morality which
             was dominated by the Anglican party of the Church of England in which passion and
             emotion were kept concealed. Jane's instinct for asserting herself was stifled at an
             age and could only be expressed through defiance. The defiant declaration of
             independence from Mrs. Reed , "You are deceitful",(v.i.37) gives Jane the power of
             freedom and opens up a life of "unhoped-for liberty",(v.i.37).
             Through the preceding years Jane develops into a highly educated, well spoken
             and strong willed woman . She is taught to be patient and thoughtful during her years in
             Lowood , and is introduc...