In class, we briefly discussed the Latin root for passion. This word, patī, means to suffer or to submit. Think about the examples of passion we see in the novel (Jane, Rochester, St. John, Rosamond).  How do these examples of passion fit this definition?  How can you tell?  Does knowledge of the Latin root open up any new interpretations of Jane’s struggle with Passion?

Answer in a complete paragraph, and when you have finished, respond to a classmate’s post.

Select one of the following prompts, and create a well-developed response.  Be sure to use example from the text to support your arguments.  When you have finished, reply to another student's response.

1. At many times in the novel, the weather adds significance to the events. What is the significance of the weather change in chapter 23? 


2. After a long period with hardly any references to God, the final line of chapter 24 reveals: "I could not, in those days, see God for his creature: of whom I had made an idol" (307).  What is the meaning of this statement?


3. In chapter 25, Jane inspects the wreck of the chestnut tree under which she and Rochester sat just before lightning hit the tree. The split trunk’s two halves lie apart, yet joined by roots and firm base. Given the significance of the natural world on Jane’s inner life, what might you infer about the wrecked chestnut tree?

Select one of the following prompts and answer completely, using evidence from the text to support your answer.


1.  Jane encounters a number of foes in the early part of the novel. What's Jane's approach to these characters? Give specific examples.  What's your reaction to this approach?


2. How important is social class in understanding the events so far?


3. At this point, what message do you think the novel is conveying?  Do you think it is a message about kindness? About love? About honesty?  Explain.

After reading chapters six and seven, address the following:

1. Describe Mr. Brocklehurst's view of religion.  Locate evidence from the text to support your description.

2. Describe the sense of faith and religious understanding of Helen Burns.  Locate evidence from the text to support this description.

3. Based on her reactions to those two characters, how would you characterize Jane's view of religion?