Jane Eyre Ch. 17-26 Questions

1. Jane is wondering about Rochester and Blanche's reasons for marriage. Is Rochester marrying for "interest and connections"? Were they "...acting in conformity to ideas and principles instilled in them, doubtless, from their childhood"? See page 216 for the context. Why will you marry? If you want to be married, why?

• It did seem like Rochester was marrying for "interest and connections." This was not an uncommon thing to do at this time in history. Marriages were made in order to create peace between families or tie the wealth of two families together. Oftentimes marriage was not founded solely upon love. I think that they were "acting in conformity to ideas and principles instilled in them, doubtless, from their childhood." In a society such as this they were probably both taught that marriage is not just about love but about status as well. The goal is to marry "up" or at least to someone who can compliment with beauty and some wealth. The type of society Rochester and Blanche are from is one focused on materialistic things and getting more of those materialistic things. I do want to get married one day, not any time soon though. I want to be married so that I can have children and create a family. God tells us to subdue and multiply the earth and I hope that one day I can have children of my own and teach them right truths. I also would like to marry someone that will be a loving husband and one that lives a Godly life and can really be that head of the household. 

2. Rochester says the following about Jane on page 232-33, "I can live alone, if self-respect and circumstances require me so to do. I need not sell my soul to buy bliss, I have an inward treasure born with me, which can keep me alive if all extraneous delights should be withheld; or offered only at a price afford to give." Can this be said about you? Why or why not?

• I think this can be said about me. If something happened and I was required to live alone then I would like to think that I could be able to do so. I think it is foolish for someone to sell their soul for happiness. If all happiness is taken away from me I know that there is a plan for my life and I just need to pray and wait to see what that plan is. Happiness does not come from people or from material things. Happiness comes from doing what God calls us to do and living for Him every day.