Jane Eyre and women today

Recently, I have given myself the task of reading the classics, or at least some of them. I started with Jane Eyre (by Charlotte Bronte) and have recently finished it, although I wish this was not the case – it really was a wonderful read.

A love story, of course, that involves all the required elements: the protagonist, her dream man, a lot of adversity, with a little adventure and, of course, another woman. But, I think, what I like most about the book is that it also provides a history lesson of life in the early 19^th century. Oh how things have changed! Sex and swear words are not even alluded to! – Which I have to say, is so welcomed. And although a woman’s role was inherently more submissive back then, there was no lack of self-respect (at least of the characters of this story).

And this got me thinking.

Ironically, many women today, who are substantially more empowered, seem to have lost their self-respect while marching down the road of feminism. Ladies, why do so many of you think that feminism implies that you should sleep around? Doing this does not empower you; it just brings you down to the level that many men find themselves on. Is this the type of equality you strive for? I hope not.

Do yourselves a favour and read Jane Eyre – we all have much to learn from her.