The Night of Terror explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Madness and Secrecy

  The hidden madwoman Bertha is violently revealed, and Rochester's desperate efforts to conceal her existence drive the chapter's tension.

• Love and Morality

  Jane's loyalty to Rochester is tested as she assists in covering up the attack, raising moral questions about complicity.

• Social Class and Inequality

  Rochester's authority over Mason and Jane's subordinate role as a servant highlight class dynamics.

Characters to notice

• Jane Eyre

  Nurse and confidante, assisting Rochester in tending to Mason's wounds and carrying out his orders.

• Mr. Rochester

  Master of Thornfield, managing the crisis with urgency and secrecy, revealing his control over Mason and his dread of exposure.

• Mr. Mason

  Wounded visitor, submissive to Rochester, having been attacked by Bertha during a forbidden visit.

• Bertha Mason

  The hidden assailant, described as biting and attacking Mason like a tigress.

• Grace Poole

  Heard laughing in the inner apartment, confirming her role as Bertha's keeper.

• Mr. Carter

  Surgeon summoned by Rochester to treat Mason's wounds.

Key passages

• “She bit me... She worried me like a tigress, when Rochester got the knife from her.”

  Mason describes Bertha's violent attack, biting him savagely.

  Reveals Bertha's animalistic ferocity and the danger she poses.

• “I have striven long to avoid exposure, and I should not like it to come at last.”

  Rochester admits he has worked hard to keep Bertha hidden and fears discovery.

  Highlights the theme of secrecy and Rochester's desperation.

• “You don't turn sick at the sight of blood? ... I think I shall not: I have never been tried yet.”

  Rochester asks Jane if she can handle blood, and she responds with uncertain courage.

  Shows Jane's resolve and her growing involvement in Rochester's dark secrets.