In this essay on Bronte's novel Jane Eyre, I will discuss the effect Blanche Ingram generates, with her personality. She evokes social themes such as; class conflict, controversy of feminism and the self realization of oneself. Furthermore I will discuss the language and imagery used to reinforce the presentation of Blanche and her importance to the novel.
To begin, the first impression we are given of Blanche is through Mrs. Fairfax. She is described as a "beautiful and accomplished lady", who can dance magnificently and sings duets with Mr. Rochester. This statement adheres to the Victorian judgments on women, which were based on their complexion and the ability to entertain with music and dance, thus diminishing a woman's true worth."Olive complexion, dark and clear features; eyesas brilliant as her jewels" Blanche is firstly described as a jewel, the description of her physical appearance is before her character; this shows the timeless importance of physical appearance for society and the way it affects people's opinions, favoring the attractive. However Blanche and Jane are the complete opposite. I believe, Jane represents a new type of hero the revolutionary feminist ideology of equality between men and women. Jane realizes that she holds something more important than beauty or accomplishment, she is an intellect, and through Blanche, Jane learns the true value of her character, and her importance to society.
Another way in which Bronte, portrays the role of Blanche, is when Rochester gives her complete attention," I saw his attentions appropriated to a great lady" he seeks her company and her affection alluding to their marriage, he openly confesses his intentions on marrying her to Jane. Rochester manipulates Blanche; she served him as a catalyst to strengthen his relationship with Jane. He deceives Blanche and dupes her into believing an affinity between them, Blanche tries her best to capture Rochester's attention and his true affection, though that is not possible as his goal is , Jane Eyre. Blanche is a minor character though she's significant to the novel because of her Victorian stereotype; she is the first obstacle, though false, between Jane and Rochester. Having used Blanche proves Rochester's desperation and his low moralistic behavior, being a Byronic figure he doesnt conform to a standard Victorian character, though through his ill usage of Blanche, his true manipulative character appears, just as Blanche is not " genuine", I consider Rochester as calculative and manipulative, which shows his deep vulnerability, as this false attraction to Blanche was merely a device to strengthen Jane's love for him.
Blanche also helps clarifying in the novel the social and class struggle. As a governess Jane finds herself being ill judged and criticized by most of the party in Thornfield specially Blanche, who in more than one occasion remarked her dislike in Jane."I noticed her; I am a judge of physiognomy and in hers I see all her faults of her class" here Blanche openly states that governesses do not belong to her elite society. There's a present class conflict between Jane and Blanche. Blanche insults Jane in her presence and makes it so that the whole crowd joins her, this act shows her spiteful character, through which Bronte portrayed the insensible upper-class. Despite having a high education Jane is not allowed to be part of the elite society as she works in exchange of money, this makes of her a worker and an inferior. Blanche having no fortune is obliged to try her best in marrying Mr. Rochester though not for love but for economic security."my fortune was a third of what was supposed, and after that I presented myself to see the result; it was coldness " this quote explains the reason of Blanche's attachment to Rochester his fortune, to stay in the elite society and be part of the gentility. Bronte shows the hypocrisy shallowness of society. Social class is a timeless issue, where people from upper class disregard.
In conclusion I believe that Blanche Ingram, being a secondary character, helped in the understanding of the social themes that Bronte introduced. Her description of Blanche depicts the nature of women in the 19th century. Blanche being a false arrogant woman, full of pride, she helps us readers understand the true nature of society. the social barriers and importance of women are a major theme in the novel and Blanche embodies both, remembered only because of her good complexion by Mrs. Fairfax and her scornful remarks on Jane. Blanche serves to reinforce Jane's affection for Rochester. Through the play Blanche is less described as a main character but more as a tool in conveying messages and themes by Bronte.
Already have an account? Log In Now
6268