The Feminist Themes in ‘Jane Eyre’ and How They Translate to Film

Many people consider Charlotte Brontë’s ‘Jane Eyre’ to be among the first feminist books since it has a strong-willed protagonist who defies 19th-century social mores.  The story explores themes that are still relevant in contemporary feminist discourse through Jane’s path of self-respect, independence, and moral integrity.  Numerous cinema adaptations have tried to depict these ideas throughout the years; some have remained more faithful to Brontë’s vision than others.

Jane’s emphasis on equality and self-respect is one of the novel’s most potent feminist themes.  Despite her intense love for Mr. Rochester, she chooses dignity over desire and declines to become his mistress after finding out about his current marriage.  This moment is emphasized in many film adaptations, such as the 2011 one starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender, which uses emotionally charged photography and restrained yet strong performances to highlight Jane’s resilience.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

 Another key feminist element is Jane’s quest for independence.  She aspires to work and financial independence, which is a radical idea for women in her time.  Scenes in which Jane asserts her agency, such as her refusal to remain at Thornfield under duress or her choice to leave St. John Rivers when he forces her into an unloved marriage, are frequently used in movies to emphasize this point.

The notion of passive female protagonists is also contested by ‘Jane Eyre’.  Unlike other damsels in distress, Jane actively shapes her own fate by her decisions.  This is demonstrated through conversation and body language in many adaptations, especially the 1943 and 1996 versions, which present Jane as calm but resolute.

 The greatest adaptations uphold Jane Eyre’s feminist principles, guaranteeing that it will always be a tale of female empowerment, even as some weaken her refusal to suit romance plots.

–Farheen Ali