The Function of Religion in Jane Eyre from a Feminist Viewpoint.

Sammanfattning:

This study is a literary analysis of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre, which focuses on how female and male characters approach religion. A stark contrast is presented between the two approaches - differing according to gender - which point to two different forms of religion. The novel highlights one form, the religion of the heart, as the superior form as it empowers women to achieve spiritual, mental and physical independence. The analytical approach is based upon Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar’s theory of imprisonment/escape as well as Carol Gilligan’s discussion of ethic of care and ethic of justice. Through these theories my study shows that the function of religion in the novel is not to discredit it, but to bring to the fore the disadvantages and benefits of religion. In the character Jane a biblical feminism is displayed which challenges the novel's patriarchal society.