Here is a sample analysis of a scene in which Jane describes herself as plain to Mr. Rochester:
Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong!—I have as much soul as you,—and full as much heart! (chapter 23)
Jane is referring to both her style of dress and her features when she describes herself as plain. Jane's features are contrary to mid-nineteenth century beauty ideals; she believes her fair skin, green eyes, and lack of remarkable features make her plain. Jane describes her style of dress as Quaker-like multiple times; the Puritan Quakers adopted a strictly conservative style of dress, unadorned and often colorless.
Jane believes she is plain and unattractive, but she asserts to Rochester that she possesses as much "soul" and "heart" as he does. Later in this chapter, Mr. Rochester proposes to Jane, saying he accepts her plainness and who she is. Similarly, Mr. Rochester is thought of as ugly according to societal standards, while Jane sees the beauty in his features. While Jane Eyre's appearance fits the "Plain Jane" image, Brontë shows that beauty is according to one's own perspective.
Charlotte Brontë presents Jane Eyre as a protagonist possessing a tremendous spirit, which is worth more than vanity. Jane Eyre is a likable character, particularly as an effect of her inner beauty.
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