Prompt 01
Essay task
In Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë presents the idea that true independence and self-respect cannot be separated from moral integrity. Using specific evidence from the novel, write a well-organized essay arguing how Jane Eyre's consistent refusals to compromise her principles — even when it costs her dearly — ultimately shape her identity and set her apart from the other characters in the story.
Your essay should
- Put forward a clear, defensible thesis that claims something about the connection between moral integrity and selfhood in the novel.
- Support your argument with at least three specific pieces of textual evidence (such as scenes, dialogue, or narrative commentary).
- Analyze how Brontë employs literary techniques like first-person narration, foil characters, and setting to enhance Jane's character development.
- Address at least one counterargument or complication (for example, instances where Jane's independence seems to falter or clash with her desires).
- Conclude by linking your argument to a broader theme: what does Brontë imply about the relationship between women, society, and moral agency in the Victorian era?
Suggested length
4–6 paragraphs (approximately 600–900 words)