Separate Spheres And Women's Status In 19th Century England

While reading the Victorian novel Jane Eyre, one can take away various life lessons dependent upon which lens of criticism they choose to approach the novel with. Chris Lewis’ article “Separate Spheres and Women’s Status in 19th Century England” accurately outlines the treatment and conformity that women faced during this time period. In Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, the feminist ideals of the Victorian Era are undoubtedly criticized. Through the lens of feminism, it is noted that the 19th century provided minimal opportunities for women. Although women during the Victorian Era were trapped inside a society that inflicted conformity onto its women, Charlotte Brontë contested the feminine ideals of the 19th century by developing Jane’s character
The Women Question put an emphasis on the dissatisfaction felt by both women and men about a woman’s limited citizenship (Lewis 2). Men were often pardoned for their deleterious acts while women had to face the harsh consequences. “The popular Victorian image of the ideal wife/woman came to be known as ‘the Angel in the House’, who was expected to be devoted and submissive to her husband” (Lewis 7). Charlotte Brontë deeply criticized this aspect of society for she felt that women were capable of accomplishing more than just being an obtuse housewife. Jane’s relationship with Rochester and her devotion towards him caused Jane to put Rochester before God. Her passion for Rochester caused her to put aside all other obligations she had (Bronte 279). In the closing scenes of Jane Eyre, Jane was not submissive to Rochester, and when they married, they were considered equals. In Chris Lewis’ article, “Separate Spheres and Women’s Status in 19th Century England”, he explained the reasoning that the members of British society had while excluding females from educational opportunities and other rights. “Not only were women excluded from waged labour, but their roles and