Chapters 14-16

Summary:

Jane does not see much of Rochester for the following days but is then called for one evening, they converse over very many subjects, including Adele’s background. Rochester had an affair with Celine Varens and ended it after discovering that she was otherwise involved. He does not believe Adele to be his offspring but he provides for her despite. That night Jane saves Rochester’s life after saving him from a fire. Rochester thanks jane and reacts very strangely, immediately leaving to the third floor. This event causes no distress and life at Thornfield resumes as usual. Mr Rochester is to leave for a social gathering where he will be in the company of a beautiful woman Blanche Ingram.


Characters:

Mr Rochester becomes mysterious and secretive. For example his immediate reaction to his attempted murder and his lack of action following. Although his character may be construed as cynical, he exerts a positive influence over Jane. Adele remains much the same as ever, however, more of her past is revealed; she is later thought of as a “lonely little orphan”, which parallels on Jane’s upbringing. Grace Poole’s character is expanded upon. She is unusal, unattractive and appears to be demented and quite dangerous(through Jane’s eyes at least).

Jane’s confidence in chapter’s fourteen and fifteen is steadily growing. Showcased by her reaction to Mr Rochester’s domination; “I don’t think sir, you have the right to command me, merely because you are older than I, or because you have seen more of the world than I”. Jane adopts a new role as confidante; I am unsure as to whether this new role was brought about by Jane’s trustworthiness or Rochester’s willingness to speak about himself. Jane however does recede somewhat to her unconfident, pitying self. She scolds herself for allowing herself to have romantic fantasies towards her master. She continues with her self-deprecating nature that can be observed in the previous chapters. This is demonstrated by her comparative illustrations between beautiful Blanche Ingram and herself.


Themes/Motifs:

Unusual circumstances are a definite recurring element in these chapters. The fire for one, it’s eerie and mysterious nature, following that is the lack of action taken. This is very odd as an attempt was made on Rochester’s life and nothing is done even though it is believed to be Grace Poole. Rochester’s affair is also an unusual circumstance. Subsequent to this Adele’s situation at Thornfield is strange. If Rochester does not believe her to be his, then why does he care for her?