Jane Eyre · Chapter
Chapter XV explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Rochester recounts his past affair with the French opera-dancer Céline Varens, detailing her betrayal and his subsequent duel with her lover. He reveals that Adèle is Céline's child, possibly his own, though he doubts paternity. Jane affirms her commitment to Adèle regardless of her origins. The chapter also explores Jane's growing comfort and affection for Mr. Rochester, as well as her reflections on his character and their evolving relationship.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Morality
Rochester's past affair with Céline Varens and his subsequent disillusionment explore themes of love, betrayal, and moral judgment.
Social Class and Inequality
Jane's position as a governess and her defense of Adèle highlight class distinctions and the treatment of illegitimate children.
Self-Respect and Integrity
Jane's decision to cling closer to Adèle despite her origins demonstrates Jane's integrity and moral independence.
Characters to notice
- Jane Eyre
Jane reflects on Mr. Rochester's story and her growing attachment to him, feeling happy and gratified by their interactions.
- Mr. Rochester
Rochester shares the story of his past with Céline Varens, revealing his jealousy, disillusionment, and the origin of Adèle.
- Adèle Varens
Adèle plays with Pilot and a shuttlecock; Jane cares for her and defends her despite her illegitimate origins.
- Céline Varens
Céline is the French opera-dancer who betrayed Rochester; she is Adèle's mother and abandoned her child.
- Pilot
Pilot plays with Adèle in the grounds and is mentioned by Rochester as being more like him than Adèle.
Key passages
“I have a regard for her; and now that I know she is, in a sense, parentless—forsaken by her mother and disowned by you, sir—I shall cling closer to her than before.”
Jane tells Rochester that she cares for Adèle even more now that she knows the child has been abandoned by both parents.
Jane's loyalty to Adèle underscores her compassion and moral strength.
“I liked this day; I like that sky of steel; I like the sternness and stillness of the world under this frost. I like Thornfield, its antiquity, its retirement,”
Rochester expresses his appreciation for the cold, stark beauty of the day and his affection for Thornfield's old and secluded character.
Rochester's mood shifts to contentment, contrasting with his earlier emotional turmoil.