Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Helen Burns
I thought that Helen Burn's death was unpredictable. Not in how she died, but by the things she said. She asked Jane not to be depressed on her passing, and that everyone dies at some point. As a young child, she seems to know a lot about the world around her; she is very wise and has a sophisticated vocabulary.
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Helen's death is a pivotal event in the novel and I believe it became Jane Eyre's coming-of-age revelation. But what struck me as odd was Helen's humble remark: "I had not qualities or talents to make my way very well in the world: I should have been continually at fault." (chapter 9, page 84) Did anyone else find this to be a little self-critical, or maybe this reinforced Helen's only supposed purpose (Jane's beloved companion)?
ReplyDeleteHelen's deep perceptive in the aspect of life truly impresses me. Her delicacy benefited Jane in a way that Helen persuaded her unconsciously to be wholesome to everyone. Her death at a very young age dismayed me because of my speculation of her being an effervescent character through out the story. She could have influenced Jane more if she had a chance, but her death impede that to happen. Helen has a great impact to Jane. Furthermore, she has shared her life with Jane; without Helen, Jane wouldn't be the same as she is right now.
ReplyDeleteI certainly agree, Stella. After living for several years with the harsh Reed family, Jane would have trouble trusting other people and realizing if they were pushing her to make her grow to be a better person. Ms. Reed was only pushing Jane because she was a cruel lady, and not because she was looking out for Jane. Helen, although short lived in the story, plays a vital role in developing Jane's character; Jane would be able to understand reasons for why her teachers were strict and how to forgive those who she was uncomfortable with.
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