Classism in Jane Eyre

Literature and written works have long been ways for individuals to comment on the transgressions that they might hold while not specifically stating them out right.  When a work has a deeper meaning, or rather something that the author wants us to recognize or come to fruition, in the film industry we call that an implicit ideology.

This idea of an implicit ideology can be seen in Victorian era of 1847, with writing of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.  This novel's plot circles around a young protagonist which was sent to Logwood Institute in order to become a 'child of grace', through the teachings of Mr. Brocklehurst, who plays the headmaster.  

In the seventh chapter it can be seen that what Mr. Brocklehurst expects from Logwood Institute goes completely against what he teaches to his own family.  This idea of the pure irony that is being presented in the passage shows a clear separation between expectation and reality, as well as it highlights a clear divide between the classes during the 19th century.

When looking at the irony that is being used throughout the passage it is most seen in the quote, "for they were splendidly attired in velvet, silk, and furs. The two younger of the trio had grey beaver hats, then in fashion, shaded with ostrich plumes".  When looking at the context and message of Mr. Brocklehurst for which the author is making this grand appearance one will better understand the irony of the situation.  Before the entrance of the daughter, he is in the middle of his speech to the girls about being modest and to never stand out nor seek attention.  He even makes remarks that even the girls with naturally curly hair shall be cut off at once, because he wants everyone of these girls to conform a plain and modest way of living.  In his words he almost doesn't want these girls to focus on what they look like, what they eat, or who they are as individuals.  Mr. Brocklehurst wants these girls at this institution to become 'children of God', following a life of Asceticism, or life without sensual pleasures in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment.  

So the irony exists when looking at the contrasting ideologies of the institution with what his own daughters are wearing.  They seem to indulge in the materialistic good that wealth and power can supply to oneself.  They are acting in complete deviation from what their own father is teaching the girls at the institution, the old phrase comes to mind, "practice what you preach".  Because it seems like the harsh limitations on clothing, nourishment, and other tasks are burdened on the girls who were sent to institution, all in the name of spiritual enlightenment.  And at this institution they are taught the sole message that less is more, and the less you have materialistically the more you have spiritually.  Well, this seems to not apply the daughters of Mr. Brocklehurst, as they indulge in expensive clothes, hinds, and other lavish expenses.  Which in turn would keep you focused on worldly desires and less on the teachings of god as well as spiritual rigidity.

Through this encounter with Mr. Brocklehurst when speaking with Miss Temple the author, at the same time, is able to provide some social commentary speaking on the terms of the oppression and dictation of the lower class.  This is seen through the depiction of the upper class that is represented through the daughters and their father and the lower, dictated class, represented by Miss Temple and the women of the institution.  This is largely seen through the actions of the upper class being able to do what they desire, with no repercussions, as well as make the rules for the lower class.  While the lower class is scrutinized and manipulated like marionette puppets at the will of the upper class members of Victorian England.  Miss Temple, representing the lower class, is a prime example of submission of said lower class, where she only speaks when spoken to and does not interject the preaching of Mr. Brocklehurst or even questions the new rules that he enacted.  Strongly showing the class divisions of 19th century in England, and how the upper class cared not for the well being of the lower class, the only thing that mattered to them was compliance.