Jane Eyre · Chapter
Chapter XXXVII explained
Jane arrives at Ferndean, a remote and decaying manor house, and finds Mr.
What happens
Jane arrives at Ferndean, a remote and decaying manor house, and finds Mr. Rochester blind and maimed from the fire at Thornfield. She reveals herself to him, and after a period of emotional reunion and care, she proposes to stay with him as his nurse. Rochester, initially despondent, eventually accepts her love and they agree to marry, restoring his spirits.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Morality
Jane's decision to return to Rochester and marry him despite his disabilities and past sins emphasizes a love that transcends physical appearance and social convention, grounded in moral integrity.
Self-Respect and Integrity
Jane maintains her self-respect by offering to be Rochester's nurse rather than his mistress, and only agrees to marry him when it is clear he respects her autonomy.
Characters to notice
- Jane Eyre
Returns to Rochester at Ferndean, cares for him, and proposes to stay as his nurse, eventually agreeing to marry him.
- Mr. Rochester
Now blind and with a mutilated arm, he is initially despairing but is revived by Jane's presence and love.
- Pilot
Rochester's dog, lies beside them during their reunion.
- Mary
A servant at Ferndean who assists Jane in preparing the room and meals.
Key passages
“The caged eagle, whose gold-ringed eyes cruelty has extinguished, might look as looked that sightless Samson.”
Rochester's blind and fierce appearance reminded Jane of a captive eagle whose eyes have been put out, or the biblical Samson after losing his sight.
Highlights Rochester's physical and emotional state after the fire.
“I am no better than the old lightning-struck chestnut-tree in Thornfield orchard... and what right would that ruin have to bid a budding woodbine cover its decay?”
Rochester compares himself to a ruined tree, questioning his right to ask Jane, who is like a fresh vine, to attach herself to his decay.
Illustrates Rochester's sense of unworthiness and despair.
“I will be your neighbour, your nurse, your housekeeper. I find you lonely: I will be your companion—to read to you, to walk with you, to sit with you, to wait on you, to be eyes and hands to you.”
Jane offers to stay with Rochester as a companion and caregiver, promising to be his eyes and hands.
Shows Jane's devotion and her proposal of a life of service.