Chapters 1-8

In the beginning of the book, it opens up on a dreary afternoon in Gateshead in a wealthy home that belongs to the Reed. We are introduce to the protagonist and main character of the book, Jane Eyre. While reading the first eight chapters, we are introduce to who Jane is. I feel sorrow for her. Everything that she is put through is morally wrong. One major theme that I picked up within the first eight chapters was the idea of being loved. At Gateshead, Jane wasn't shown any affection at all. She also didn't have the sense of being valued, or belonging. At Gateshead, she was not wanted. Although she lived with the family, she wasn't part of it. When she goes to Lowood, she feels as if what she felt before. With enduring the harsh conditions, the cruel teachers and the whole scene caused with Mr.Brocklehurst, she is not receiving the love and attention she has longed for. When we are introduced to Helen Burns, she seems to represent an "angel". When Jane is mad and wants to seek revenge, Helen tells her she should forgive because that is the right thing to do. It seems Ms.Temple represents a mother figure in ways to Jane. She is very understanding about the situation and lets Jane tell her story, which she never got to go when she was at Gateshead.