Jane Eyre Compare and Contrast

Examples of opposing symbols which one could compare and contrast to their use in the novel are: society and solitude, the character of Jane and the character of Mr. Rochester, the religion of Mr. Brocklehurst and of Helen Burns, the privileged child and the orphan, the structured garden and the wilderness.

Remember when you are forming contrast to be the central thrust of your paper, ask yourself the question “For what purpose are these opposing ideas used in the novel? What do they represent?” The answer will be your working thesis. Working is the operative word because you must consider other possible answers to your question – opposing viewpoints. Including these opposing viewpoints and then giving textual evidence is what will make a strong paper. It will also make your final thesis one which is thoughtful and sound. You may change your thesis as you continue your research, but this will ultimately strengthen your paper.

Articulate your comparison near the start of your paper, at the end of your introduction, then in the body of your paper work to explain to your reader of how one arrives at this view through analysis, reflection and exploration of the text.

This paper should follow all relevant MLA guidelines for a research paper. This means double-spaced text, one inch margins, name and page number on each page, and proper citation of all quotes and secondary sources. Use standard 12 pt font, such as times new roman or arial.