Jane Eyre Chapters 33-34 Litblog

Mary Ann MacDonald
Period 5
10-23-12

Chapters 33-34

Summary: In chapter 33, Jane finds out that her uncle in Madera died, leaving her 20,000 pounds. She also finds out she is the cousin of St. John, Diana, and Mary and has decided to split her fortune with them and live them in their house. She has also decided to leave the school, but waits until a substitute comes to take over. In chapter 34,  Diana and Mary arrive home and St. John tells them that Miss Oliver is marrying Mr. Granby, a rich man in another shire. Before going to bed, St. John kisses Jane on the lips. He asks her to learn Hindustani instead of German. He then asks her to go to India and marry him, not for love but for the service of God. She says she will go to India with him, but not as his wife, he is angry at this and leaves the room.

Quotation: "What can you mean? It may be of no moment to you; you have sisters and don't care for a cousin; but I had nobody; and now three relations- or two, if you don't choose to be counted- are born into my world full-grown. I say again, I am glad!"(411).

Quotation Significance: When Jane finds out that she is related to Diana, Mary, and St. John, she is ecstatic. She thought she had no relative left in the world or someone left to support her. Now that she knows she won't be lonely and can share her fortune with someone she is relieved. But St. John doesn't understand this.

Reflection: Jane is in shock after learning St. John wants to marry her, and what's sad it that is that it is only just for service for the missionaries, Not for loving her. Jane understands service for God, but doesn't want to be ties to St. John and she sees how mad and hurt he is, and is almost persuaded by him to marry him because of it. Jane just can't possibly imagine being marrying to a cold man who doesn't love her and living her whole life tied to him. I think next she will run away from St. John and find Mr. Rochester again or she not go to India and stay with Diana and Mary and be found by Mr. Rochester eventually. Because earlier a couple chapters back, when the tree was split down the middle, it means they will be split up, but their foundation or very roots of their friendship and love still remain and be strong. 

Discussion Question: Why do you think Jane feels obligated to marry St. John?