Here's a breakdown of Helen's statement and what she means:
Helen's Argument:
* Empathy over Intellect: Helen suggests that our ability to connect deeply with a piece of literature relies more on our capacity for empathy and emotional understanding than our intellectual comprehension.
* The Power of Sympathy: She believes that feeling the emotions of the characters, sharing in their joys and sorrows, and understanding their motivations is what makes a story truly resonate with us.
* Beyond Words: Helen argues that the beauty and impact of literature lie not just in the words themselves, but in the emotional truths they convey, which we can access through our own experiences and feelings.
Example:
Imagine reading a novel where a character is facing a difficult choice.
* Understanding: You may intellectually grasp the various factors influencing their decision, but this alone won't necessarily make you feel the weight of their dilemma.
* Empathy: If you can truly empathize with the character's fears, hopes, and motivations, you will likely experience the story on a deeper, more personal level.
Helen's Significance:
This conversation highlights the importance of empathy and emotional connection in our appreciation of art. Helen's words challenge the idea that understanding a work of literature solely through intellectual analysis is sufficient. Instead, she emphasizes the power of feeling and the role of personal experience in shaping our interpretation.
In the context of Jane Eyre:
Helen's philosophy is significant because it foreshadows Jane's own journey of self-discovery and her struggles with societal expectations. Throughout the novel, Jane learns to embrace her own emotions and navigate the complexities of human relationships, ultimately finding strength and fulfillment through empathy and compassion.