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Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel, Jane Eyre, tells the story of Jane’s journey into adulthood. Bronte artfully paints a portrait of a lowly orphan’s rise into life as an independent woman. Many themes throughout the novel make Jane Eyre one of the most captivating, and timeless pieces of literature read today. One such theme is the ongoing battle between conventionality and morality. Many characters in Bronte’s novel often make the mistake of thinking the two are one in the same. Mrs. Reed’s treatment of Jane is a prime example of a character following conventionality in order to meet her perception of morality. From outward appearances, Mrs. Reed seems to be a generous aunt to, Jane, her difficult ward; thus, she meets the standards and expectations of conventionality. In reality, Mrs. Reed’s behavior towards Jane is deplorable and morally unjust. Instead of treating Jane like “one of her own,” Mrs. Reed acts as though Jane is inferior to her precious children. While the Reed children live lives of luxury and privilege, Jane is treated more like a servant. She must clean the nursery and perform other menial tasks, and she often remains separated from the children. To Mrs. Reed, Jane is merely a difficult thorn left by her husband. On his deathbed, Jane’s uncle Reed had implored his wife to raise and maintain Jane as her own child.
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