Women in Society

“She is qualified to teach the usual branches of English education, together with French, Drawing, and Music (in those days, reader, this now narrow catalogue of accomplishments would have been held tolerably comprehensive).” (pg. 103)

During the nineteenth century, women made a large step toward achieving equality. Before this point, women were not allowed to continue their education after grammar school, as they were thought to be unintelligent and incapable of being anything more than housewives. However, after much protest, women proved that they were equally capable and were allowed to attend school and attain a more rounded education. Because Jane states “in those days” the time period of the novel can be assumed to be the earlier to mid 1800s. Also, because this book was written during this time period, it reflects Bronte's personal opinion about women and how they are equally as capable as men. This novel vindicated women's rights and showed that men were not the only key figures in society. In addition to this quote supplying cultural information, the part saying “English education, together with French” essentially foreshadows Jane working with Adèle.

"Westward Expansion." Angelfire. Web. 29 Nov. 2009. http://www.angelfire.com/ca/HistoryGals/Linda.html