Jane Eyre · Chapter
XXII explained
Jane returns to Thornfield after a month at Gateshead, having seen Georgiana and Eliza Reed depart.
What happens
Jane returns to Thornfield after a month at Gateshead, having seen Georgiana and Eliza Reed depart. She is warmly welcomed by Adèle, Mrs. Fairfax, and the servants, and feels a deep sense of belonging with Mr. Rochester. Despite rumors of his impending marriage to Blanche Ingram, Jane cherishes her time at Thornfield, hoping the match might be broken off.
Themes in this chapter
The Search for Belonging
Jane reflects on her return to Thornfield as a true homecoming, feeling a magnetic pull and declaring 'wherever you are is my home—my only home.'
Love and Morality
Jane struggles with her love for Mr. Rochester while knowing he may marry Blanche Ingram, and she half hopes the match is broken off.
Characters to notice
- Jane Eyre
Returns to Thornfield after a month at Gateshead, feeling a magnetic pull towards Mr. Rochester and the hall.
- Mr. Rochester
Greets Jane warmly at the stile, calls her 'Janet,' and shows unusual kindness and cheerfulness after her return.
- Adèle Varens
Half wild with delight upon seeing Jane, nestles close to her during tea.
- Mrs. Fairfax
Receives Jane with plain friendliness, reports that Mr. Rochester has gone to London and may be making wedding arrangements.
- Eliza Reed
Requests Jane to stay another week; plans to enter a convent near Lisle and eventually takes the veil.
- Georgiana Reed
Entreats Jane to stay until she leaves for London; later makes an advantageous match with a wealthy man of fashion.
Key passages
“I am obliged to you for your valuable services and discreet conduct! There is some difference between living with such an one as you and with Georgiana: you perform your own part in life and burden no one.”
Eliza thanks Jane for her help and contrasts her with Georgiana, praising Jane for being self-sufficient.
Eliza's farewell to Jane, acknowledging her competence and independence.
“Thank you, Mr. Rochester, for your great kindness. I am strangely glad to get back again to you: and wherever you are is my home—my only home.”
Jane expresses her deep gratitude and sense of belonging, telling Rochester that his presence defines her home.
Jane's heartfelt declaration upon returning to Thornfield, revealing her emotional attachment.
“I that evening shut my eyes resolutely against the future: I stopped my ears against the voice that kept warning me of near separation and coming grief.”
Jane deliberately ignores thoughts of future separation and sorrow, choosing to enjoy the present moment.
Jane's willful denial of the impending marriage and her desire to savor her time with Rochester.