One part of Jane Eyre that I found to be interesting in regards to a woman's place in the 19th century is "servitude." While she is contemplating leaving Lowood, Jane expresses that she desires liberty. Then, Jane cries for "at least a new servitude!" I found this desperate plea to be sad and hopeless. Jane wants freedom, but she has been taught that she must be a servant. I love that Jane is a first person narrator and we can see her struggle between wanting freedom, but having no other options but to serve in some way. We can see her passion when she says, "Liberty, Excitement, Enjoyment: delightful sounds truly." Then, we can also see Jane's reality as she says, "Servitude! That must be matter of fact." The enthusiasm just isn't the same.
I also began to think about women and service today. It is interesting that service sector jobs, or pink collar jobs, are mostly held by women. Some traditions, I suppose, are hard to break.
You describe this scene so well, Brandi. And yes, in lots of ways, Jane's frustration is still with lots of women today.
ReplyDeleteIt's also interesting because servitude is, of course, noble and admirable...yet we want more for Jane.
ReplyDeleteI do pose one question, and not just to Brandi.
ReplyDeleteI find myself asking aloud. Do we, like Jane accept the pink collar jobs as a way of submission and diluted happiness or do we suffer trying to be in a position we want. The sword is serrated and double edged.