Jane Eyre is not
traditionally catagorized as a gothic novel, but it does contain several gothic
elements. It is generally considered to be more socially and
psychologically driven than those novels established as specifically "gothic". Th
implication is that gothic novels are less well-developed, and perhaps less well-written
than Jane Eyre. Yet Bronte makes use of certain aspects of gothic
literature in her text.
One such aspect is
melodrama, which Jane Eyre certainly employs. Jane's
situation as a child, at both Gateshead Hall and Lowood Institution, is one of
loneliness and isolation, with dramatic architecture and possibly evil authority figures
thrown in. The entire courtship of Jane and Rochester involves melodrama, with lots of
tears, secrets, passionate encounters, and flights across the unforgiving wilderness.
The setting itself is another gothic consideration. The
wild landscape of Jane's life plays an important role, such as during her aforementioned
flight. The storm which splits the tree before Jane's discovery of Bertha is yet another
example. The houses too fall into this category. Thornfield Hall is quite mysterious,
with its unexpected nighttime visitor (who is herself a gothic figure).
Finally, Rochester can be considered a gothic or Byronic
hero. Again, he has an air of mystery about him, and he seems determined
to get his way, no matter the consequences.
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