The Works of Charlotte Brontë
A Brief Survey
Introduction
Charlotte Brontë (1816–1855) was an English poet and novelist who during her short life managed to write some of the most influential literary works of the 19th century. She wielded her influence despite being a woman in an age where women remained generally relegated to childbearing and (if they were lucky) being social adornments for their husbands.
Her childhood was strenuous; she was raised by her stern clergyman father and very religious aunt. As a Victorian writer raised in a strictly religious perspective, to take on such an individualistic profession as a woman during a period and society dominated so thoroughly by men was a testament to her will, her talent, and her vision.
To say the least, writing during the Victorian era was considered an occupation for men. This fact, so readily apparent to Brontë, prompted her to write about the plight of the women in her era, conveyed brilliantly through her various literary works. In particular, her novel Jane Eyre — whose themes involve the feminine quest for happiness and equality — contributed to Brontë’s ranking as one of the greatest writers of the era. This essay looks at Brontë’s work as a whole as well as explores individual works, focusing on her novels Jane Eyre, Shirley, The Professor, and Villette.
