Timeline of "Jane Eyre"

Childhood

1820

Jane Eyre is born to a poor family and becomes an orphan after her parents die. She is taken in by her aunt, Mrs. Reed, who mistreats her and favors her cousins.

Age of 10

1830

At age 10, Jane is sent to Gateshead Hall, where she faces emotional and physical abuse from her relatives. After a confrontation with her cousin John, she is locked in the "red-room," a traumatic experience that marks her childhood.

Education

1831

At age 11, Jane is sent to Lowood School, a charity institution for orphaned girls.
She befriends Helen Burns, who teaches her about endurance and forgiveness.
The harsh conditions at Lowood lead to a typhus outbreak, resulting in the death of many students, including Helen.

Career

1835

At age 16, Jane becomes a teacher at Lowood after completing her education.
She gains confidence and independence but yearns for a change

Thornfield Hall

1838

At age 18, Jane accepts a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she teaches Adele Varens, the ward of Mr. Rochester.
Jane meets Mr. Rochester, and they develop a complex relationship filled with tension and attraction.
Lately, Jane discovers Mr. Rochester's dark secret: he is already married to Bertha Mason, who is mentally ill and kept hidden in the attic.
Despite her love for Rochester, Jane realizes she cannot compromise her principles and leaves Thornfield.

Independence and Self-Discovery

1841

(1841) After leaving Thornfield, Jane wanders alone and is taken in by the Rivers family, who turn out to be her cousins.
She inherits a fortune from her uncle and gains financial independence
(1842) Jane learns that Thornfield has burned down, and Bertha died in the fire.

Final

1843

(1843) Jane reunites with Mr. Rochester, who has been left blind and injured. (1844) Jane and Rochester marry, finding happiness together.
The novel concludes with Jane's reflections on love, independence, and the importance of self-respect.