IV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Inequality

  Jane's lowly position as a dependent relative is starkly contrasted with the privileged treatment of the Reed children.

• Self-Respect and Integrity

  Jane asserts her honesty and refuses to be falsely labeled as deceitful, standing up for her own moral worth.

• Religion and Hypocrisy

  Mr. Brocklehurst's pious demeanor and the religious tract contrast with Mrs. Reed's cruel treatment of Jane.

Characters to notice

• Jane Eyre

  Defiantly confronts Mrs. Reed, asserting her truthfulness and expressing hatred for her aunt.

• Mrs. Reed

  Shaken by Jane's outburst, she tries to regain control but ultimately leaves the room.

• Mr. Brocklehurst

  Visits Gateshead, gives Jane a religious tract, and arranges for her to attend Lowood.

• John Reed

  Attempts to hit Jane but is daunted by her fierce reaction; complains to his mother.

• Eliza Reed

  Follows orders to speak little to Jane; appears dressed for Christmas festivities.

• Georgiana Reed

  Accused by Jane of being the liar; also dressed for holiday parties.

• Bessie Lee

  Scolds Jane after the confrontation with Mrs. Reed, delivering a long homily.

• Abbot

  Mentioned in the conference with Bessie; part of the household staff.

Key passages

• “I am not deceitful: if I were, I should say I loved you; but I declare I do not love you: I dislike you the worst of anybody in the world except John Reed; and this book about the liar, you may give to your girl, Georgiana, for it is she who tells lies, and not I.”

  Jane tells Mrs. Reed she is not a liar, and that Georgiana is the one who lies.

  Jane's first open rebellion against Mrs. Reed's authority.

• “I am glad you are no relation of mine: I will never call you aunt again as long as I live. I will never come to see you when I am grown up; and if anyone asks me how I liked you, and how you treated me, I will say the very thought of you makes me sick, and that you treated me with miserable cruelty.”

  Jane renounces any familial bond with Mrs. Reed and vows to expose her cruelty.

  Jane's passionate declaration of independence and rejection of her aunt.

• “Something of vengeance I had tasted for the first time; as aromatic wine it seemed, on swallowing, warm and racy: its after-flavour, metallic and corroding, gave me a sensation as if I had been poisoned.”

  Jane's initial thrill of revenge turns into a bitter, remorseful feeling.

  Jane reflects on the moral cost of her outburst.