Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre is widely considered one of the first novels rooted in feminist principles. The character of Jane is undeniably independent in how she fights for equality and navigates the male-dominated society of 19th century Britain. However, her coming-of-age story centers on an oppressive social structure dominated by men and marriage, and Jane is unlikely to make a decision independent of patriarchal influences. While her actions were undoubtedly seen as more radical in the mid-19th century, it is nevertheless impossible to read “Jane Eyre” as a truly feminist novel in the 21st century. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay This lack of legitimate feminist agenda can be seen most prominently through Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester. After developing a friendship, and later romance, with him, Jane becomes “so happy, so gratified…with this new interest added to life, that [she] stopped pining for relatives: the [ his] thin crescent fate seemed to widen; the voids of existence were filled; [his] physical health has improved; [she] gathered flesh and strength.” However, there is a clear power imbalance between the two, which prevents her from gaining the autonomy she desires through this relationship. This is made evident by the way they address each other: “master and “little girl,” respectively, and by his direct question to her: “do you agree with me that I have the right to be a little masterful ?”. Despite Mr. Rochester's possessive and controlling attitude, Jane accepts a marriage proposal. When her past with Bertha Mason is revealed and their marriage is annulled, Jane, who had previously been an "ardent. The woman in waiting" once again becomes a "cold and lonely girl; her life was pale; her prospects were bleak.” Mr. Rochester had added color to her life that she had become dependent on. However, instead of criticizing him for deceiving her, she continues to blame herself: “I would be afraid to even cross his path now: mine. point of view must be hateful to him. Oh, how blind my eyes had been! How weak my conduct is!” Furthermore, when they talk about the conflict, she admits that she “forgave him immediately and immediately”. Mr. Rochester does not have high standards as a partner and has a tendency to justify his immoral actions by finding fault with himself, both clear signs of his submission to the oppressive system of patriarchal marriage shown throughout the novel. may view Jane's refusal to move to France and marry Mr. Rochester and India's refusal to marry St. John as acts of radical female empowerment, the consequences of these decisions invalidate that view. Having rejected immoral and loveless marriages, Jane's move to Ferndean represents the end of her long search for freedom and stability for Mr. Rochester. On the surface, it appears that they are equals in a loving and fulfilling relationship based on mutual respect. However, it must be considered that it is only after Mr. Rochester loses his sight and, consequently, his self-sufficiency and ability to dominate it, that she becomes in some way his equal. While Mr. Rochester acknowledges that Jane is making an immense sacrifice by dedicating her life to being “his vision…his right hand,” she disputes that “being [his] wife means, for [her], being happy [ she] I can stay on earth.” Instead of providing her with new experiences and opportunities, marriage limits her.