Theme/Historical Reference:

Religion plays a major role in chapters 4-8 of "Jane Eyre". Mr. Brocklehurst is not only the superintendent of Lowood, but he is also a clergyman. He emphasizes his belief in Christianity and constantly scolds others for being sinful. Ironically, he is a hypocrite for scolding others because he himself is a sinner for treating the Lowood girls with cruel acts such as keeping them nearly starved and cold. In fact, when Jane first met Mr. Brocklehurst, he constantly questioned her about her religion. She replies that she is uninterested in the Psalms. In disgust, Mr. Brocklehurst says “That proves you have a wicked heart; and you must pray to God to change it: to give you a new and clean one: to take away your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (49).

Helen also represents Christianity in that she is modest and accepts others and punishments given to her. However, Jane strongly disagrees with Helen's beliefs as well. Jane believes that she should stand up for what she knows is right and only accept the punishment she deserves. But even though Jane rejects these ideas, she develops her own ideas about faith. Jane isn't hypocritical and hateful like Mr. Brocklehurst, and she isn't too religious like Helen either.