1. Jane's Vulnerability and Isolation:
* Orphanhood and Neglect: Jane is orphaned early and endures a harsh childhood at Gateshead Hall, where her aunt and cousins mistreat her. This sets the stage for a sense of loneliness and lack of love.
* Social Class and Gender Inequality: Jane is a governess, a position that places her on the fringes of society and under the authority of men. She experiences the limitations placed upon women in Victorian England.
* Internal Struggle: Jane is a complex character with strong emotions and a moral compass that often clashes with the world around her. Her internal struggles with self-doubt, love, and social expectations make her relatable and vulnerable.
2. Sympathy through Contrasting Characters:
* Antagonistic Characters: Characters like Mrs. Reed, John Reed, and Mr. Brocklehurst highlight Jane's mistreatment and lack of support. The cruelty of these characters makes Jane's resilience and strength even more compelling.
* Compassionate Characters: Characters like Helen Burns and Miss Temple provide moments of kindness and support. Their empathy for Jane's struggles further evoke reader sympathy.
3. Jane's Voice and Perspective:
* First-Person Narrative: The novel is told from Jane's perspective, allowing the reader to see the world through her eyes and experience her emotions directly. This intimate perspective creates a connection with her struggles and vulnerabilities.
* Honest and Reflective Tone: Jane is honest about her emotions, thoughts, and struggles. This self-awareness and introspection invite the reader to empathize with her journey.
4. Emotional and Physical Hardships:
* Loss and Abandonment: Jane experiences multiple losses throughout the novel, from the death of her parents and Helen Burns to the rejection of her first love. These losses emphasize her vulnerability and the challenges she faces.
* Physical Abuse and Neglect: Jane experiences physical and emotional abuse at Gateshead Hall and Lowood Institution. These experiences evoke a sense of injustice and highlight the vulnerability of a young woman in a patriarchal society.
5. Jane's Strength and Resilience:
* Determination and Perseverance: Despite facing numerous obstacles, Jane displays remarkable strength and determination. She overcomes adversity and strives for a better life, inspiring the reader with her unwavering spirit.
* Self-Reliance and Independence: Jane is a self-made woman who relies on her own strength and intellect. This independence and resourcefulness make her an admirable character and further elicit sympathy for her struggles.
By portraying Jane Eyre as a vulnerable and relatable character, subjected to harsh realities and displaying remarkable resilience, Charlotte Brontë effectively evokes sympathy from the reader throughout the novel.