Abstract:Jane Eyre, the representative work of Charlotte Brontё, has been regarded as a pioneering feminist novel. However, judging from what is presented in the novel, Jane Eyre is not a definite feminist. Although she struggles for equality, there are still enormous inequalities between her and the hero. Confined to the social background of Victorian age, Jane Eyre cannot get rid of her inferiority in the patriarchal society. Based on feminist approach, this paper analyses the inequality between Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester from the perspective of appearance, property, social status and spirit. Jane Eyre is always inferior to Rochester in appearance and social status. And she is dependent on Rochester economically and spiritually. Jane Eyre never achieves equality during her whole life. Thus, it can be concluded that equality between man and woman is just a fairy tale in Victorian age; it is impossible in reality.

Key words: Jane Eyre; inequality; appearance; property; social status; spirit

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Introduction-1

1. Women’s Inferiority in Victorian Age-3

2. Inequality in Appearance-7

3. Inequality in Property-9

4. Inequality in Social Status-11

5. Inequality in Spirit-12

Conclusion-15

Bibliography-17

Acknowledgements-18