Open Prompt Dec 4

1980. A recurring theme in literature is the classic war between a passion and responsibility. For instance, a personal cause, a love, a desire for revenge, a determination to redress a wrong, or some other emotion or drive may conflict with moral duty. Choose a literary work in which a character confronts the demands of a private passion that conflicts with his or her responsibilities. In a well-written essay show clearly the nature of the conflict, its effects upon the character, and its significance to the work.

                  From Romeo and Juliet to Star Wars, the conflict between love and moral duty remains a popular theme in literature and art. Aside from adding human drama, many authors use this conflict to advance other messages. Charlotte Bronte is one such author in her work Jane Eyre. The moral dilemma Jane faces in her love for Mr. Rochester creates what could be considered one of the earliest feminist novels.

         Although Jane and Rochester face many barriers to their relationship, none is more resolute then Jane’s moral convictions. Wealth and social boundaries are more easily overcome then Rochester’s still binding marriage to the insane Bertha. Despite her love for Rochester, Jane declines becoming his mistress for religious and personal convictions. Jane realizes that by being his mistress she would lose her self-respect and sense of equality in the marriage. Although Jane is poor, she is also proud and would see herself perpetually a dependent of Rochester.

         Jane’s decision to leave Rochester casts her in a role other than the traditional damsel in distress found in other Gothic and Victorian Literature. An individual, Jane will not permit herself to compromise her beliefs for the sake of an easy life. Showing self-reliance uncommon of other heroines of the day, Jane seeks out employment away from Thornfield. The feminist message of the novel is further enhanced by Jane’s eventual return to Rochester. True to her own desires, Jane does not allow herself to be pressured into a marriage with St. John while she still loves Rochester. Only when Jane feels she has equity with Rochester, financially and socially, does she agree to marry him.

         The moral obstacle to love in Jane Eyre adds a layer of complexity to the romance. Instead of simply becoming a hurdle to overcome, it defines Jane’s relationship with Rochester and with herself. In her struggling with this dilemma, Jane becomes part of the feminist pantheon.