Shortly after this passage, it is revealed that Rochester's secret wife is the "madwoman in the attic" at Thornfield, who had tried to set his bedroom on fire and had stabbed Mason earlier in the novel. Write one paragraph that discusses how the characters and their actions in Jane Eyre reflect the novel's historical, social, and cultural context.
In Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë skillfully intertwines the characters and their actions to reflect the historical, social, and cultural context of the novel. The revelation that Rochester's secret wife, Bertha Mason, is confined to the attic as the "madwoman," speaks to the repressive nature of Victorian society. In the 19th century, mental illness was still stigmatized, and individuals with mental disorders were often locked away and hidden from society. By having Bertha exhibit violent tendencies, Brontë highlights the fear and ignorance surrounding mental health at the time. Furthermore, Bertha's Creole background adds another layer to the novel's exploration of race and colonization prevalent during the British Empire's expansion. Bertha's presence as an "Other" becomes a symbol of the unseen consequences and injustices perpetuated by colonialism. Therefore, Brontë's portrayal of the characters and their actions not only advances the plot but also offers a critique of the societal norms and values of her time, making Jane Eyre a powerful reflection of its historical, social, and cultural context.
