Written by Christina Barnes
Minor characters are vital when it comes to enhancing a story, though, while main characters are complex and develop, minor characters are usually flat, and stay constant throughout the progression of the novel. In numerous literary works, authors use minor characters to add to the story. These flat characters often offer the main characters some sort of hope or guidance, ultimately developing their character throughout novels, just as they do in Jane Eyre, written by Charlotte Brontё. In Jane Eyre, such characters interact with the main character, Jane, in positive ways, aiding in her development as a character. The minor characters in Jane Eyre hold a significant purpose in displaying Jane’s growth as an independant character by offering her guidance; some of these characters include Mrs. Fairfax and Mr. Lloyd.
In the early chapters of Jane Eyre, Mr. Lloyd, the servants’ doctor at Gateshead, was the first to suggest change in Jane’s abusive life. When Jane cries herself sick in the red room, Bessie sends for Mr. Lloyd to check her health, who proclaims that the child needs a change of “‘air and scene’” (Brontё 228). He asks Jane, “‘Would you like to go to school?’” (Brontё 227). Though he is a minor character, and makes a small amount of appearances throughout the novel, Mr. Lloyd is the first character to instigate hope in Jane’s life; Jane is excited by the thought of attending school, and looks forward to it when Mrs. Reed announces that she would be attending Lowood. Mr. Lloyd paves the path for Jane’s separation from the Reed family, and directs Jane’s life in another direction, which allows Jane to further develop her independence.
Mrs. Fairfax offers Jane advice when she comes to learn that she is engaged to Rochester. When Mrs. Fairfax learns of Jane’s unlikely relationship, she immediately frowns at the age gap and difference in social class. She warns Jane of Rochester, persuading her to be careful around him. Mrs. Fairfax tells Jane, “‘but you are so young, and so little acquainted with men, I wished to put you on your guard. It is an old saying that “all is not gold that glitters”; and in this case I do fear there will be something found to be different to what either you or I expect’” (Brontё 395). Mrs. Fairfax’s warnings irritate Jane, but stick and shape her nonetheless. Ultimately, Jane informs Rochester about how she wishes to keep her independence in their relationship; she tells him, “‘I shall continue to act as Adèle’s governess; by that I shall earn my board and lodging, and thirty pounds a year besides’” (Brontё 399). With the warnings in mind, Jane keeps her respectful distance from Rochester, appeasing Mrs. Fairfax’s worries and further developing Jane’s independant character.
Jane’s development of independence is demonstrated through the guidance of Mrs. Fairfax and Mr. Lloyd. Mrs. Fairfax warns Jane of the possibility of danger that could consequently occur with a close relationship with Rochester, which causes Jane to keep her usual distance from him, contributing to her independant characteristics. Mr. Lloyd advises that Jane attend a school, which is the first step towards Jane’s separation from the Reed family. Both contributions are vital attributions to Jane’s development as a vital character, and guide her in the progression of the novel. Such characters as Mrs. Fairfax and Mr. Lloyd who provide such advice and guidance enhance one’s life, empowering them to endure the hardships of life.
Christina Barnes is based in Chicago, Illinois and enjoys crafting engaging, abstract pieces that reflect her perspectives on society and common issues. As an 18-year-old writer paving her way through the writing community, she hopes to inspire others and become a stronger writer along the way.
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