Parallels

A detailed Summary of Parallels

In Charlotte Bronte's masterpiece, Jane Eyre, of the Victorian period and the Romance of Tristan and Iseult, as retold by Joseph Bedier, the couples that find themselves in love are Jane Eyre with Edward Rochester, and Tristan with Iseult. Both couples face major obstacles that jeopardize or destroy their relationship. Some of the characteristics of romantic love used in these two works are suffering for one another in a variety of ways, constant thought of one another, and most vital to these particular tales, the overcoming of obstacles. The parallels between the two novels extend beyond these, but there are some obvious differences.

In both novels, the love of the two protaganists is forbidden by social obstacles, all very important. In the case of Tristan and Iseult, it is the marriage of Iseult to King Mark, and in Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester's instance, it is Edward's marriage to Bertha, his insane wife who is contained in the attic. Iseult and Mark could never be divorced, as that was not an option in feudal times. Edward and Bertha also could not be divorced, for several reasons. The only truly acceptable cause for divorce in Victorian times was infidelity. Bertha was always faithful, she only late

This proves to Rochester that money actually was her main purpose, and does not desire to pursue another marriage like his marriage to Bertha. That marriage was financially convenient, as Rochester was the younger son, and would not inherit the family fortune, as was Victorian marriage. There is a difference. The deception by Tristan and Iseult is necessary, as infidelity would be reason for her to be put to death. The deception by Rochester is for personal gain, as he already feels for his governess, Jane Eyre.

This separates Jane and Iseult in a enormous way. Jane expresses her feelings instead of hiding them. This was not normal in Victorian times, either though. Another related difference is that Jane receives an inheritance from her uncle, which turns the tables. She has no need for Rochester as provider, however, he needs her. His estate is destroyed in a fire and it leaves him blind and poor, needing Jane Eyre to look after him. He is maimed and she is not considered to be a "catch." Their love for their personalities, not for their money. The two works differ by this condition also. Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester find happiness. Tristan and Iseult never achieve happiness. They die in the end longing for each other. Both married to one that is not their true love, and deception by Tristan's spouse keeps them from meeting for one last time in the end.

Another parallel is the treatment of Iseult and Jane. They both are treated as objects. Iseult's desires are of no interest to Mark, as she is a woman, and in feudal times, they were never considered important. In Jane's case, Jane feels that Rochester is playing games with her. She feels that they are equal, and, unlike Iseult confronts him:

r became insane. Edward highly resents

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1195
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Novels