JANE EYRE - 100 BOOKS YOU MUST READ!

[@mitzireadsandwrites]

Hey, Tristan! Happy to see you and especially discussing Jane Eyre. ❤ I agree about Charlotte Bronte sharing herself through the novel because many of the events are based on things she experienced in her own life and certainly as a woman during Victorian times. However, I feel it was more of a perfect idea of who she wanted to be because based on what I've learned about Charlotte, I don't think I would have liked her as a person. Have you read The Brontes by Juliet Barker? It's fascinating and well worth the read. Poor Charlotte was a socially awkward person. To be fair to Charlotte, though, I don't think Barker liked her that much. 😂 I always love your deep dive into these novels! I've read Jane Eyre many times and never once thought about the places and the landscape descriptions- great thoughts. btw for me Rochester stands for jerk! why in the world she wanted to marry him I'll never know 😂 Seriously, I am nodding my head as you talk about how she subverts the gothic tradition within this story and that is why we love it! This is why I am in constant search of similar books and can't seem to find it. what a masterpiece

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Rochester was a jerk!🤣 That so should be a review on Goodreads. He is a tad unusual, I'll give you that. Perverse at times. On of the facets that I love about Jane is her willingness to look for the inner character and its strengths.

[@Yesica1993]

"btw for me Rochester stands for jerk! why in the world she wanted to marry him I'll never know " Hahaha! I am almost done with my second reading and he is bothering me more now than the first time! I only put up with him because she loves him. Why, I don't know either. How can you ever trust a person again when they've so willingly lied/deceived you and in such a serious way?! It wasn't something minor. It's not like a one time lie that you say in a moment of weakness or even deliberate wrongdoing and immediately regret it. He kept on and on with it. Even after he's caught, he not only still wanted her to go with him, it's like he didn't even grasp why it was wrong! Plus, everything was always everybody else's fault. Maybe I will change my view once I finish up the last few chapters. But wow, he's a piece of work. As to the writing itself, the first time, I thought the ending was a cop out. While I was overjoyed for a happy ending, the situation was resolved too easily. It took the responsibility from him to have to do anything. I would have liked to see what HE would have done, had the circumstances not happened the way they did and "fixed" the problem for him. I think this is *almost* a perfectly written book. But the ending, to me, felt rushed and too easily resolved. Again, this is only my second reading and I am still a few chapters from the end. Maybe some part of my views here will change once I'm done. Except for my dislike for R. I don't think that will. ;)

[@Yesica1993]

Nope. Nothing changed in my reread. I still love the book. And I still think R is a jerk. ;)

[@rociomiranda5684]

Bronte's honesty. Her fierce, brutal, fearless psychological honesty. There is no female figure in literature to touch Jane Eyre. She is so true to what it means to be a woman, even today, the good, the bad, the light, the dark, the things we don't want to admit even to ourselves. She stands grave and quiet at the mouth of Hell and is not afraid of what she sees.

[@nianju2354]

I often read, people dislike Rochester for deceiving Jane... being a jerk... a kind of pervert... not understanding, why she married him. But I think, Brontë gives the answer in certain explanations. Marriage at that time was until death did part a couple. There was no chance of separation or any other 'solution' ... so Rochester was trapped for their lifetime, but just seeking a human being to love and to live with what he never experienced. He tried to achieve it by having affairs with mistresses who appeared to be soulless etc... This drove him further to despair. You should not forget that he cared for his mad wife very much... and did not sent her to an asylum or 'getting rid' of her in any other way. So I consider this character as a quiete fine one. But a fine character does not mean you make no mistakes. Rochester told her from the very beginning about his way of life and his sins and faults. And that he tried to convert from this, becoming a better person by 'ataching an unpolluted fine fresh huming being' to himself and to love eachother in a morally high way. It brings me to tears reading his explanation to Jane how he fell in love with her. I think Jane ran away bc she loved him even more after learning the reason behind his deception. She felt deeply pitiful for him... but she knew it was impossible for her living with him in that unsolvable status. Brontë never describes Jane being angry oder mad... just broken. What I love most about the hole story is that both agree that as human beings they are equals despite their differences as male and female. Rochester never treated her inferior, but as a companion. Yes, he gaslighted her about what was happening with his wife in the attic. But that was exactly HIS UNSOLVABLE PROBLEM that turned him into an imposter. This book is my alltime favourite... and my first book I have been reading in English...it was not easy to read as many words are of Latin origin or idioms seem antiquated. Or are all these terms still used in the English language today?

[@SibyllaCumana]

Very well said!

[@belkyhernandez8281]

I agree with much of what you said.

[@sandraelder1101]

The real question is why Rochester didn’t seek an annulment? It seems he had grounds since he married under false pretenses and was deceived about her character & risk of madness. The Church of England allowed for petition of annulment (not just the Catholic Church). I don’t remember this being addressed in the book, but perhaps I missed it.

[@sandraelder1101]

He didn’t love or care deeply for Bertha. As a young man he was flattered by and infatuated with her but, after discovering her true character & how he was deceived into marrying her, he quickly learned to despise her. He took care of her out of duty and honor and his own understanding of human kindness.

[@WeLiveByTheSea]

​@@sandraelder1101and we know that he was deceived into marriage how? Because Rochester said so. Is Rochester a man to be true to his word or is he deceptive, a proven liar? I'd like to hear Bertha's side of the story. Why does he even call her Bertha when her name is Antoinette? No, Rochester is a jerk. A prize jerk. Mrs Fairfax had the measure of the man but Jane was too naive

[@carolinesmercantile4290]

I love that Jane was a great conversationalist. This is how Rochester fell for her. He was annoyed by her at first, because, perhaps, of their first encounter with each other. He then fell in love with her mind over her looks and became addicted to her. The "names" names of the places also reflect a garden. A garden gate, wood, thorn, moor (a unique biome) and fern. Then the story ends in a garden where R can no longer gaze upon J which is fine because he looked past her appearance anyway.

[@radiantchristina]

Jane Eyre holds a very special place in my heart. It was the first classic I read on my own (not in a school setting) that I fell in love with. I reread it every few years 😍

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

You couldn't have picked a better book to have alove affair with

[@etelsalanki299]

What a fantastic analysis of this marvelous book. Thank you 🙏

[@LaJessChelle]

This is the same for me!

[@peggymccright1220]

I’ve read Jane Eyre 8 times or more and you brilliantly talked about it’s importance without a spoiler! Amazing. Thanks so much for your video, I have so few people to talk with about books. Thank you

[@tine272]

Oh my god I had no idea what the word "Eyre" meant before watching this brilliant video! Thank you so much for adding yet another reason for me to absolutely adore this novel. Subscribed ❤

[@sharon152]

Ooh a new video from Tristan welcome back my friend you have been so missed!!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you Sharona!😀 You are lovely. I hope you enjoy it. Lots of goodies in this one.

[@janetay8798]

I have never liked my name since young and I hate introducing myself even with a simple "I'm Jane". When I first read Jane Eyre as a 19-year-old at the hospital, that was when I began hating my name to a lesser extent. This was the first Victorian novel I read on my own accord (not as assigned reading), and holds a special place in my heart.

[@chirazbenabdelkader7294]

Jane Eyre is the first classic that I read in high school and that holds a special place in my heart to this day.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

How wonderful to have experienced such a beautiful novel so early on. It is such a moving story, and Charlotte Bronte has such a talent in finding just the right words.

[@silviaherrera2564]

I remember reading this novel in 11th grade and being enthralled by it. I didn’t realize at the time what it was that made it remarkable for me, perhaps the developing love story. After hearing your analysis, I understand the under layers that at the time captured my heart without knowing. What a masterful writer Charlotte Brontë was! It remains one of my top three favorite novels. I plan to reread it this fall. Thank you for making your videos. I was an English major in college and really enjoyed all of my literature courses. I miss them! Your videos bring these wonderful memories back. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm for English literature.

[@Beesmakelifegoo]

It’s fascinating how the emphasis on being physically attractive is prioritized back then and especially today. Notice the way advertising propels commerce. The implication being, a struggle to achieve higher expectations. It’s important in terms of of what it takes to grow one’s character. I feel that morality develops out of the experience that one has had. Thank you for the wonderful way that you teach how relevant to one’s own mental growth by giving meaning to Life!

[@ЕкатеринаКузнецова-я2к]

I like Jane's caracter because she is always rational and posed but not cold. She has a warm heart and it helps her in difficult live. She is warm and life cant freeze her. Thank u.

[@Meg-go5le]

I have thought of you often during the past few months, hoping that you would come back when you were ready. I avoided the classics until I watched your posts and now I am hooked and see the value and joy in Victorian Lit that my high school teachers tried to impart 40 odd years ago. Better late than never! Thank you

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you Meg, this is a great comment to have received and means so so much. I hope you have a splendid year.😀

[@4thlinemaniac356]

@ Queens Of English Literature Debate Austen Vs Bronte @ Intelligence Squared channel with Real Actors Doing selected scenes will make You want to Read Wuthering Heights Equally as good as Jane Eyre.

[@hanichay1163]

I love Jane because she did the right thing when it cost her everything. That is the greatest story ever told.

[@AnnaBananaRepublic]

From her perspective yes, but I don’t think it’s morally correct what has been done to both of them from a society who more highly value the image of propriety, than actual morality.

[@hanichay1163]

@@AnnaBananaRepublic yes they both had a bad deal. That conflict is what makes a good story.

[@sandraelder1101]

Agree. Very strong and heroic. It takes great courage to stick to your convictions in the face of great suffering, to be convinced that it is better to do what is right than to do what you wish.

[@GraceKugrena]

Welcome back Tristan! So good to see and hear from you!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you Grace 😀

[@tiffanymay526]

Thank you, Tristan! For exploring and revealing some of the deeper layers of Jane Eyre - I am reading it now for the 4th time and find I love it as much, if not more, each time.

[@PoiemaLee]

Wow! I love this deep dive into one of my favorite novels. So rich. Thank you very much!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

It's a brilliant book isn't it 😀

[@kimberly5411]

I was absolutely overjoyed when I saw a new video pop up in your classics. You bring great value to the literary world by encouraging others to enjoy the best works available, while also reminding them that these beautiful works can be understood and internalized. Jane Eyre is a favorite of mine. Makes me want to reach for it again.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you so much Kimberly. The Classics are so rewarding. Jane Eyre is a delight.

[@BEVERLYRANDOLPH-lx4qu]

When I read Jane Eyre as a young person, I loved it. (I never loved Wuthering Heights, btw-I thought it was just a string of crazy, completely undisciplined people) I recently reread it. I’m in my 70’s now. I had forgotten what an insufferable prude Jane is! Yes, it’s good to be a moral person; but jeez Louise, she’s just over the top. It’s a great story, for sure. I love the supernatural elements, the psychic communication, and her travels and experiences. But she has something of a superiority complex. I like that elucidation of her name, Tristan, thanks!

[@ТатьянаГубина-и1и]

You are absolutely right!

[@lucyjazz1]

So glad to have you back 😃 !!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Hello Lucy, great to hear from you😀

[@lucyjazz1]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 and now that I’ve seen your video… thank you for this brilliant and lively analysis ! I loved your explanations about the names. I read Jane Eyre quite a while ago… I definitely need to read it again ! Thank you again, take care and see you soon ! 😀

[@mauritateed8185]

Wow. Awesome. I was totally absorbed in your synopsis of this book. Thank you for your explanation. I will enjoy this book so much more after watching this review. For me, this is definitely a book that everyone should read

[@Lu.G.]

So great to see you, Tristan! I was so hesitant to read Jane Eyre and in 2019, I finally decided to give it a go. I *loved* it! 📚 Your synopsis and break-down of the names was absolutely brilliant! 👏🏻 What blew me away the most about this story was (at least in my mind) the fact that Jane had a really sad and tragic life, especially in the beginning, but she had such strong convictions and knew exactly who she was. Thank you for this! ❤

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

It's a beautiful book. There is so much to it. It is a brilliant look at the individual and the desire to freely be oneself . So much more that could be said.

[@elliewiltshire7001]

Haven't watched the video yet but just wanted to say so good to have you back!!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you so much Ellie. So lovely to hear from you also.

[@danielacorvino2526]

Thank you Tristan for this new amazing video. Jane Eyre will Be my next book to read.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

I hope that you love it like millions of others do.

[@marinarees3828]

Omg, this is an amazing input. I read this book every couple of years or so, and learn new things every time. Needless to say it is my favorite. Yet, your video, enlightened me even further. Thank you.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

So pleased that you enjoyed it Marina. Jane Eyre is such an excellent work. There was so much more I wanted to discuss. Maybe another video.😀

[@caterinapipperi3543]

What an extraordinary analysis of Jane Eyre! I read it in high school but I didn’t get all the elements you talk about here, so I am definitely going to read it again after watching your video. Thank you so much

[@kathleencraine7335]

Thank you for this fantastic look at Jane Eyre. I had no idea of the meaning of "Eyre", and that has added so much to my appreciation. I had some vague ideas about the place names, but now they are more definite in my mind. I have been reading (and re-reading!) Jane Eyre for almost 60 years now. It was my mother's favorite book as well (I still have her copy) and I think she loved it (and Austen) partially because her name was Jane. "Plain Jane Craine" is how she referred to herself. 😊 I only had one quibble with your synopsis--if I remember correctly, Rochester denies that Adele is his daughter; his rationale/defense sounded plausible to me and I think we are to believe him. Anyway, loved this, and hope you will be back around with another video soon--waiting patiently for Trollope.

[@4thlinemaniac356]

@ The Queen's of English Literature Debate Austen Vs Bronte @ Intelligence Squared channel I believe You would Appreciate this. Has Real Actors doing selected scenes but on Wuthering Heights Equally as Brilliant.

[@mandyc1280]

Hello Captain!! So happy to see a video from you; and about my favorite book as well! Many blessings to you friend 😊

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thanks Mandy. Good choice of favourite book.

[@adellajones9887]

Hi Tristan. I enjoy your analysis so much. I think I understand literature and then you come along and open another window. I am learning a lot!

[@Tuesdaymayhew]

Yay! Happy to have new video from you! I read Jane Eyre last year and now I’m reading Villette. Absolutely love C Bronte’s writing ❤Excited to finish the video and hear all your thoughts.😊

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Hello Tuesdaymayhew. My wife really likes Vilette, though not as much as Jane Eyre. Can't wait to hear your thoughts. Please come back and share them.

[@muhlenstedt]

Nice to see you again and doing good. I have missed your videos a lot. Jane Eyre , I am never tired of hearing and reading about it and the book itself. Wonderful, thank you!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

One can never have too much of Ane Eyre. 😀 Thanks for commenting, it's lovely to hear from you

[@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD]

Been missing you!! I'm about to pick this one up today as soon as I finish the Mayor of Casterbridge.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Oh I love the mayor of casterbridge. Thomas Hardy is marvellous. I do hope that you enjoy Jane Eyre.

[@janebaily3758]

SO GLAD to see you! Started Jane Eyre a few months ago and then got distracted by other books..you made me pick it up again!!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Hi Jane, great to hear from you! Hope you enjoy Jane Eyre there was s much more that could have been said.

[@robertocatrone715]

Brilliantly done. I love the way you're helping people to learn deep reading skills.

[@ralphjenkins1507]

so happy to see you again ❤️!!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thanks Ralph. Good to hear from you.

[@kathrynreinitz6619]

Just found your channel. Love it! I'm reading Jane Eyre now!

[@alidabaxter5849]

I so love and admire your videos. When it became difficult for me to hold up hardbacks for a long time, this was one of those of which I bought the paperback because I always wanted to reread it - it never ceases to fascinate me. I think a great deal of Charlotte's own feelings and longings bleed through into the character of Jane, that the power of choice, of being the rescuer, are what she wants. Lowood was always the ultimate horror to me, and Jane's ability to survive it shows how strong she was. It's a fascinating study of a woman without obvious beauty or money yet who survives and thrives. If you read The Professor you understand Charlotte's journey to writing this. Thank you for such a fascinating analysis.

[@gather.sip.flourish]

I absolutely loved this!! Thank you so much!! Jane Eyre is my favorite book and I never knew any of this!! Can't wait to study further. Thanks again!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed the video. Thank you so much for taking the time to be so supportive. I appreciate it very much.

[@LaJessChelle]

Just finished reading this book, and wrote all these notes just inside the front cover. Thank you for the insight! I can’t wait to re-read this book in the future. I’m still ruminating over the ending… !

[@LaurenAlex31195]

Jane Eyre is my favourite book - probably because I related all too well with a strong-willed plain young girl when I read it in my youth haha This quote always touches me when she has left Thornfield and is destitute and alone in the world.. 'Nature seemed to me benign and good; I thought she loved me, outcast as I was; and I, who from man could anticipate only mistrust, rejection, insult, clung to her with filial fondness. To-night, at least, I would be her guest, as I was her child: my mother would lodge me without money and without price.' -how stunning!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Spectacular passage. Thanks for sharing this.

[@erichswett1543]

Thank you, Tristan, for your insights into Jane Eyre: Charlotte Bronte's subverting of the Gothic novel, incorporating of fairy tales, and exploring meaning through the names of places - all heighten the novel's enduring appeal.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you Erich, I'm pleased you enjoyed the video. Thanks for commenting too. I really appreciate it.

[@kandywestmoreland5164]

Tristan. Jane Eyre was my favorite novel back in high school and I reread it this summer. It’s still one of my favorites. I think it’s one of the most moving love stories that I’ve ever read. Thank you so much for the deep analysis of this very beautiful story. I learned so much from this video and now I’m anxious for my next reread. I’m so happy that you are back because I absolutely adore your book reviews. You truly have a gift. Kandy

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Hi Kandy! It is such a great book. There is so much more that can be said about this book.

[@maltohi]

Thanks for the review on Jane Eyre, Tristan. I read it based on this review...coming back to it now on KZbin, I was only half way through watching your review before I went off to read the book. With that having been accomplished, I finished watching your review. Great points about Jane's journey, too. With regard to the writing, Charlotte is adept at articulating power imbalances. Each time she interacts with each of the antagonists, the descriptions were as if they were lived experiences. The male characters in the book and the structures that enable the them to be "jerks" are still around to this day. I especially liked her depiction of Mr Brocklehurst. ;-) I didn't get a sense that Rochester was a jerk though. He immediately struck me as being similar to The Count of Monte Cristo. Rochester's explanation to Jane as to why he would happily become a bigamist, revealed that the plot of intrigue and betrayal perpetrated upon him by his own father and brother, had such a deleterious effect on him, it only seemed natural that he would behave so. In some ways, he was like Dantes before the betrayal in The Count of Monte Cristo. Rochester's behaviour seemed as though it was calculated and he always taking the measure of others whilst keeping his defences up. Feinting, ducking and weaving whilst gauging reactions, drawing out intentions. More as a defence from further betrayal. He says as much later with his contrived tale about his fortune and his subsequently being dumped by the Ingrams. I liked the ending better in Jane Eyre as well. What a marvellous construct of storytelling. Not quite number one for me, that is Brothers Karamazov, but Jane Eyre is firmly in my top 5. Thanks again for the recommendation.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you for such an excellent and thoughtful comment, Mal! As you say, C Bronte was exceptional and worthy of imitation in how she handled her subject. Jane Eyre is certainly a 'proto-feminist' wwork of literature. It doesn't, though, succumb to vitriol or the very modern trend of extreme absolutism. Brocklehurst is drawn vividly as the exemplification of the hypocritical, double standards of various institutions and ideologies of the day. But then, Bronte draws Men with a frank and even hand. Rochester is by no means perfect, and he does have an advantage over Jane in both sex and station. But he is a product of his society and his past. He is also a very honest and good man. St John, too, is a good man in his way, but is not perfect by any means. He is more worthy of respect than of love. Jane admires him and so do his sisters, for his moral uprightness. What Bronte does is expose the problems in society without blaming the individual. This is the mark of an intelligent person. Unfortunately today, the propensity to anger seems to cast out rationality and balance.

[@maltohi]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 Thank you again, Tristan. You bring up an extremely salient point with regard to those who hold inflexible views without seeking to understand how they've arrived at said views. I bring this up because I was blessed to have travelled through Turkey not long after the 9/11 attacks. Travelling from Istanbul to the Hatay region which borders Syria. Thoughought my journey, and often with the liberal imbibing of Turkish beer, I remember being drawn into philosophical discourse by Muslim men...who were trying to understand and debate Judaeo-Christian views. I wouldn't call myself an evangelist at all, but I was happy to discuss history which included St George's origin. An uncomfortable fact about Turkey's Christian history. We had animated, heated discussions as though I were young Pierre before he became the Count, offering contrarian and unpopular views to the room. But afterward, my hand was shaken with warmth, they'd clap me on the back with a genuine smile and call me friend whilst agreeing to disagree. The same year I spent St Patrick's Day in Belfast. Not knowing the lay of the land, I ended up in a bar where I found myself being asked which of the Christian branches I identified with...a moment in my life which was like meeting a Bricktop-like character and quite disconcerting as entry was gained via an electronically locked cage, controlled from inside the bar, which would arrest any attempt at escape. It was obvious that a wrong answer would not be well received. I was able to sidestep the issue by discussing my homeland's idolisation of rugby, the pinnacle of which being the All Blacks rugby team. He treated me as a lost soul as opposed to his mortal enemy. Fast forward two decades and you are right, many people do get triggered. More recently I've encountered vocal supporters of Putin's war...people who've never stepped foot in Eastern Europe, have no ties to Russia and have never even touched any of the Russian giants of literature. One Putinist is one of my in-laws, admitted that he does his "research about Putin's war" on KZbin, whilst trying to send me said "documentaries". He was happy to call me narrow minded and brainwashed when I politely declined. He declined my suggestion to him that he read War and Peace saying that he didn't have time. I also impressed upon him the relevance of The Gulag Archipelago which he also declined. I offered to watch all his suggested documentaries if he only read War and Peace as he does read fiction. But only that which is found in bookstores and public libraries found in the section known as Thriller. 🤦 Lord help us all. 🙏 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@Yesica1993]

"power imbalances" , "lived experiences" , "structures that enable the them to be "jerks" are still around to this day." All the woke buzzwords. What a poison that mentality is.

[@maltohi]

@@Yesica1993 care to discuss the book? Or do you just read comments looking for phrases that trigger your fragility?

[@LilianLTK]

Wow! What a treat to watch this video right after finishing Jane Eyre ❤ Thank you!✨

[@maryfilippou6667]

I can't locate now your wonderful Slow Reading video. Imagine a housebound person discovering your videos, what a fine way to spend the Week or more: absorbing your advice, & enjoying reading! It might make tempt one to drag their ailment on a mite longer.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Ooo, keeping off work to read and watch KZbin. I believe that's what happens in heaven 😅 As for the Slow Reading video, if you click on my channel and select "videos," that one should be first on the list.

[@ТатьянаГубина-и1и]

I like the way you speak about books very much. I see in you a book- loving friendly soul.😊

[@ceebee2858]

This is one of the greatest incitements to read a book that I've ever come across. I read it, I know, when I was younger, but clearly don't remember it as I should! I'll be finding my old copy and dusting it off today 😊

[@Yesica1993]

I only came to read it a few years ago. I was surprised at how much I loved it! Doing a reread now and enjoying it even more.

[@LuneFlaneuse]

Brilliant review! 🎉

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you.

[@DramaPixie-wt8hm]

Loved your analysis of this wonderful book. This is one of my all time favourite books. I've just finished reading the huge biography of the whole Bronte family , 'The Brontes' by Juliet Barker, and although that is a 1200 page book, it reads like a fast-paced novel, with great insight, which I think could be useful if read in conjunction with 'Jane Eyre'. To take just one point, Charlotte Bronte struggled her whole life with feeling constrained by the limited horizons that women of her 'class' were able to experience. But when she achieved fame after Jane Eyre became successful (and her pseudonym got 'outed' by the brother of her best friend), she actually disliked fame to a large degree, as it limited her in a different way - it did mean that she got to experience 'London society', but then she was extremely socially awkward, and yearned for the solitude of the Yorkshire moors again. She felt she was 'ugly', and that 'society' was judging her, and she just wanted to get away. There is even a sketch she drew of herself with a caption referring to her 'ugliness', contrasted with her best friend looking 'beautiful' and standing next to a man, while Charlotte stood alone. I'd love it if you did an in-depth review of Villette or Shirley, by the way :-)

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thanks for sharing this. That was really interesting. There is much of Jane Eyre herself in what you related, even though it was written before the events you speak of. It shows how an author frequently infuses their main characters with their own inner convictions.

[@Yesica1993]

Thank you for the background on the names!

[@belkyhernandez8281]

Maybe Rochester and St John represent 2 sides of Jane's personality/temperament.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

A very provoking idea 💡

[@gabriellejoyce1415]

Thank you so, I loved this book as a kid and can’t wait to go back & reread w this (and more) context!

[@amyhardin2079]

Fantastic video!

[@heatherfoley4945]

You have made me wish I hadn't donated my copy to the library book sale. This was very enlightening...thank you!

[@iamjane9628]

Loved this video and gained some new insights about my favorite novel. Thank you!

[@Lightwriter1]

Today I discovered your channel and I love it. Also joined the discord server. Greetings from the Netherlands, Hans W.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Great to make your acquaintance Flying Jay Jay. Did the link take you through to the Classics Reading Lounge?

[@Lightwriter1]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 Yes I did find my way Tristan. I am there as "Hans W" ;-)

[@dreamstreetrose318]

Jane Eyre is far and away my favourite book. I've read it 4 or 5 times and there is always something new to find. You've pointed out a few elements that I hadn't noticed before. I'll be thinking about them on my next read-through!

[@4thlinemaniac356]

@Intelligence Squared channel @video The Queen's of English Literature Debate Austen vs Bronte they delve into what the sisters had to endure with real Actors acting out scenes but not Jane Eyre Wuthering Heights Equally as Excellent.

[@dreamstreetrose318]

@@4thlinemaniac356 That sounds very interesting. Thank you for the recommendation!

[@4thlinemaniac356]

@@dreamstreetrose318 Enjoy...opened my eyes to the importance of Wuthering Heights on Society.

[@teakara]

My favourite novel ❤ for so many reasons. Greetings from Bosnia. Subscribed

[@Rara-zm2ps]

Hey Tristan! Just recently finished reading Villette by Charlotte Brontë and would LOVE to hear your thoughts! I'd say Jane Eyre and Villettte are on my list of the best pieces of Literature I've read. Loved listening to you!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Your not on your own Rara. My wife loves Vilette. What did you think of the ending?

[@Rara-zm2ps]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 Ayy so glad to see your swift reply! ☆ To be honest I spoiled myself a little on the ending and so as to subdue any potential positive feelings on M.Paul I was determined to dislike him...however his sweetness grew on me! His character also made me realise and reflect on the people I know in real life, those who are temperamental and rage easily, but are secretly very sensitive and well meaning. I also found those "controversial" scenes quite amusing and shared Lucy's unbotheredness with M.Paul's sermonizing XD. Although his ending was unfortunate I appreciated that such things can reflect real life as well, so the experience was bittersweet. But thoroughly enjoyable! I ended up forgetting about Dr John (who I had a feeling knew the kind of effect he had on the opposite sex, so I didn't root for him as much) and was anticipating M.Paul's name on each page haha Edit: You both have great tastes!~☆ Would love to hear your thoughts and hers too! ^^

[@xaviercrain7336]

The story of the novel itself is very well done…

[@Mermer-16]

Thanks for your insights! The Rochester/Sinjin comments made me think of this quote from 'Jane'.😉 'One has all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it.' While I don't think Mr R is as good as Col Brandon, it still seems to fit.

[@kayeanne]

I have read Jane Eyre several times because it's one of my top favorite books. And each time I read the sad scenes, it always makes me cry.

[@k.e.7016]

I'm in the process of reading Jean Eyre with a friend. So far (I've read a few chapters) i get the feel that Jane is a feminist hero. The girlhood of her character is very relatable in some ways, before the year ends i hope to have read it. A great book it seems. And thank you for this wonderful video, it is insightful and good background knowledge to the read. Many thanks.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

She certainly is the proto-feminist. Charlotte Bronte, more than anyone else, unleashed the pattern of what would become the New Woman. So many writers found their way from the track that Charlotte introduced in Jane Eyre. Not that everyone agreed though. And I don't mean just men. Plenty of men agreed in fact, and a host of women disagreed. It was a fascinating period of thought and change. Sadly it has been stripped of all its nuances in this modern age, which has become extremely lazy in its thinking and become what has been termed, a 'soundbite' society. But what Bronte did in this book I think was absolutely spectacular. To me she is a marvel (along with her two sisters) She put into words what hundreds of thousands of women felt and thought and it cracked the dam of sentiment already simmering in the public, by both women and men. In fact, as you read, consider Mr Rochesters attitude towards Jane. He loves her for who she is, her intelligence, her character, her immense abilities and fortitude, and he considers her opinikns far more worthy than any of his associates. Please get back to me after you've finished the book and tell me your thoughts. Happy reading!!! 😀

[@charmainesaliba5546]

Thanks so much for this in depth of Jane Eyre. It's my favourite book of all time. It so interesting the significance of the title. What I love about the novel is Jane's strength, for some it might seems passive and weak but in reality she is strong. She. behave according her believes, refusing to go to the easy way. She could have accept certain conditions from both Rochester and St John however she refused because she knew they were wrong. From the beginning of the novel we can see how strong she is. Some regards Jane Eyre as a feminist because of the ending but honestly I disagree. I believe that the way it ended has to do with what went in the first half. I might be wrong, it just a sensation. I saved this video for when I reread it hopefully soon. Thanks so much for this video. ☺️

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

You've summarised Jane's attitude brilliant with this comment Charmaine. It's perfect.

[@charmainesaliba5546]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 Thanks Tristan very kind of you

[@katblack394]

I did my honours thesis on Jane Eyre many moons ago. It's still one of my favorite books.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Oh I say! What a book to do a thesis on. Would love to hear your thoughts. There are simply so many layers to this book.

[@katblack394]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 It was about 30 years ago, but I remember the gist of it - I noticed that Bronte mentioned the titles of books that many characters were reading, and I thought that was an odd thing to do in a novel. I wondered if there was some sort of connection to any of the underlying themes. To my delight, there was! It was a fascinating journey for me . I have the paper somewhere in my home, but heaven knows where it is! I think I titled it "The Novels Within The Novel" or something along those lines.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

@@katblack394 That sounds fascinating. I'd love love love to hear more about that if you ever discover it again.

[@yorkshirerose6334]

I love Jane Eyre ❤️ and being a Yorkshire lassie myself feel close to the Bronte sisters. I think Anne was also brilliant and I love Wuthering Heights by Emily and her poetry. If you have ever wandered on the moors around Haworth it gives you a new perspective on Emily. Would you like to discuss the other 2 sisters? All were ahead of their time.

[@gracetaylor7351]

I love Jane eyre I love how you talking though Jane eyre how you talking about the meaning of the names .explaining about the book. Love the story of her .❤

[@MeghanReadsFantasy]

I love Jane eyre. Ive read it obsessively (32 times) and every time i read it i come away feeling something different and taking something different away from it.

[@TinyGhosty]

I REALLY wanted to like Jane Eyre and 80 percent of the novel had me hooked. I however completely lost my passion for the book when her cousin John spent so much time trying to browbeat her into marriage. I understand her perspective of wanting to please him and how his behavior slowly developed her submission to his character, however I still do not understand why she would agree to go and be a missionary with him as his helper and "sister." To me it does not make any sense to her character when she finally received the joy of a family that she yearned for her entire life. Discovering her family and being able to live with Diana and Mary was the climax of the novel for me and everything past that felt downhill in plot. If you happen to read my comment I would like to know your thoughts on that particular plot point. Do you think it was intended to reinforce her will for not marrying if it was not love? Or that it was showing that the attractive nature of John was not important to her and able to compensate for the loveless marriage offer? Like I said I really wanted to enjoy this novel but that part really got under my skin and made me feel like Jane reacted in a way I felt was uncharacteristic for her. She would not sacrifice her morals to be a mistress so why would she sacrifice her life (and health) to be a missionary helper, something she specifically said she had no interest in?!

[@brigittebeche4117]

Which edition are you holding ?

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

It's by Alma Classics.

[@brigittebeche4117]

@tristanandtheclassics6538 thank you ! I have got the norton critical edition and a penguin classics onecas well (compulsory for university studies at the time). Yours looks beautiful 🙂. I learnt a great deal thanks to your video! I am most grateful ! Please keep it up.🤗

[@stephenholland3801]

How many other books end with a prayer for Jesus to come quickly? Glad you’re back!

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Quite! I wish I could have gone into that. Did you noticed the mirroring in this of Janes friend Helen Burns in Lowood School?

[@johnford6967]

Still have my 1963. Collins Classic edition l bought in a book store in Chester Uk. (17yrs old)

[@SriyaniSenanayaka-m4z]

Excellent criticism

[@lindaparker7199]

Glad to see you again. I reread Jane Eyre late last year for the second time...this time as an adult, and liked it better. I don't always like reading a book more then once, but in another ten years I could read this story again, I think.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

I can understand what so many people read this book every year. While I wouldn't read it that often, I appreciate it.

[@PoetlaureateNFDL]

I think I would like to read this now. 😊

[@SriyaniSenanayaka-m4z]

Pleasure to listen to your logical interested explanation

[@dystar112]

Hi Tristan. New subscriber here.

[@Noa-cc9ur]

Is the book club you started still going? I'm popping into discord every once in a while but there has been no activity for a while now....

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Hi Noa. The book club is going very strong. It has moved to another channel called the Classics Reading Lounge. I'll try and find the link for you.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

JOIN the Classics ReadingLounge - HERE IS THE INVITE LINK discord.gg/ECez2GbNEE

[@Noa-cc9ur]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 thanks 😊

[@wisdomencouraged9326]

5:35 adele is not his child, but he takes care of her anyway

[@arantxaarbulu8322]

hi! in the book mr Rochester implies that Adele is not his daughter, can we say for certain that she is?

[@carokat1111]

Adele is not Rochester’s daughter.

[@ThomasWright_]

i just finished reading this it took me about a month l loved it

[@susprime7018]

One of the few books that I enjoyed re-reading.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

I agree. So many different layers and just an all round good story.

[@susprime7018]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 Plus I learned something new today, I knew about assizes but eyre was new to me, thank you.

[@Shahrdad]

I think St. John became Sinjin because of the French pronunciation of it. And Jane does indeed describe St. John as very handsome and looking like a Greek statue.

[@ldavies3280]

I didn’t know about her surname. That’s fascinating.

[@bookluv6567]

As you were talking about the significance of names in the novel (thank you for that!) I thought that, maybe, the surname "Eyre " sounds the same as " heir ". Could that be a possibility?

[@Falconlibrary]

I judge all books by the Batman Metric: Has an adaptation of the film been done compared to "Batman" films in their various incarnations? If it's close, equal to, or even exceeding the number of "Batman" films, it's quality literature. Batman reboots: 16 (and counting) Jane Eyre adaptations (film and television): 16 times (and counting) Jane Eyre passes the "Batman" test. Wuthering Heights: 14--close, but not quite equal to "Batman" A Christmas Carol: 50+ times

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

This is brilliant! It may be the definitive answer to the question "What is a classic?" Step aside Calvino. Daniel Bradford is in town😅 This simple definition would allow us to say, once and for all, "Joyce's Ulysees is garbage!"😂 It may have more words than all of the Batman films combined, but I don't see it being actually put into film again. You have just liberated a host of anguished students, Daniel. On a more serious note, I am amazed at how good this criteria is. You have now sent me down a rabbit hole of research, and I thank you for it.

[@Falconlibrary]

@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I once lectured my students on existentialism in Batman films and comics. Or as Batman once said: "The world doesn't make sense unless you FORCE it to!" (said while throttling some petty street criminal)

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

@@Falconlibrary wow! I'd love to hear you give a lecture. Do you have any uploaded somewhere?

[@sheilagibson982]

It is my second favorite, (A Tale of Two Cities is my favorite).

[@mollyfarrell.]

Great video, i think youre misremembering, Saint John was an incredibly handsome man, described as a roman statue.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Thank you Molly. You are right. The thing about St John is that his personality seems so flat or statuesque that one doesn't find him attractive. Would you agree?

[@mollyfarrell.]

@Tristan and the Classics true, also you'd think Rochester was way more attractive than him if you weren't constantly being reminded by the book, that he was an ugly man, personality counts

[@WeLiveByTheSea]

Did we even read the same book? St John was described by Jane as 'tall, slender; his face riveted the eye' does that sound like an ugly or even plain man? She elaborated 'it was like a Greek face, very pure in outline; quite a straight classic nose; quite an Athenian mouth and chin.' Also there is a supernatural element that cannot be explained rationally. You touched on it when discussing nature, 'Jane Jane Jane' what you missed was the fact that Rochester 'heard' Jane's reply. That they seemed able, in that moment at least, to be able to communicate telepathically is supernatural. I do think the ending was rather twee and trite of the 'and they all lived happily ever' after nature. I take your point about the manifesto stated in chaoter 12 but the plot makes a fool of that claim. What Jane wanted was to be a woman of independent means. Overall, although undoubtedly well written and crafted, i found the plot disappointing. That Jane was gaslit by Rochester into marrying him is not the romance it is generally portrayed to be. That he kept gis first wife locked up in solitary confinement in a windowless attic shows a cruelty that is staggering. We only have his word to take for it that she was mentally unbalanced and he was tricked into marriage. I'd like to hear Antoinette's side of the story. Bridget Jones would never have married Rochester. Mrs Fairfax had the measure of the man but Jane was too naive bless her.

[@brittneynbowen]

Interesting video. I would like to clarify that the apostle John is not the apostle of love. When John writes of himself he calls himself the apostle whom Jesus loved. He is not "the apostle of love". Additionally you say neither Rochester nor St. John are particularly good looking but I think Bronte actually describes St. John as very good looking and truly Roman

[@urbandiscount]

Jane Eyre is not CB. The title page shows what Charlotte Bronte intended as a mystification. Jane Eyre comes from the world of the juvenilia, just like Wuthering Heights did.

[@MeghanReadsFantasy]

. . . Justice for Bertha!

[@patriciapendlbury2603]

That child is not Mr Rochester's. He was her ward.

[@sandraelder1101]

June 2024 I’m currently rereading it. So brilliant! One of the all-time greatest heroines!

[@staceyblanks8945]

I'm reading it for the first time (6/30).

[@sandraelder1101]

@@staceyblanks8945 Enjoy! 📚❤️

[@urbandiscount]

D.H. Lawrence's take on Jane Eyre explains something of the attraction: he considered it pornography

[@redwingsrules4919]

This book with RED COVER? Its cruel for lovely Jane Eyre

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

That never occurred to me😅 Some book designers are just downright perverse. 😂

[@77andsunny]

I read Jane Eyre differently from being a highschooler as to now a wife and Mom. That rotten cousin and aunt, nasty brocklehurst. I was so mad I had to walk away for a bit.

[@thesisypheanjournal1271]

There might be a bit of a pun in the name as well, since Eyre is a homophone for heir.

[@tristanandtheclassics6538]

Good point, I never considered that.😀