What is the main theme of Jane Eyre?

Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre has
several important themes. One of the most important themes may be the injustice of a
rigid class structure. Because Jane is an orphan, her life choices are far more limited
than those of many of her relatives and peers, even though she is mostly more
intelligent, capable and hard- working than they are. This becomes especially clear when
she and Rochester fall in love. They clearly share an authentic intimacy that should
have been celebrated from its inception, but Jane is reluctant to express her feelings
or let others know about their bond because of the difference in their social
status.

However, another important theme is the voice of
women. Jane is willing to express her needs and opinions in a society that values women
who are submissive and accommodating. This leads to frequent punishment in her early
life, and seems much less attractive than her childhood friend Helen's more gentle
style. In the end, though, Jane develops a strong sense of herself and continues to
rise. Her sense of independence allows her to reject school master Mr. Brocklehurst's
hypocritical self-righteousness and later, a loveless marriage to St. John Rivers. It
also makes her much more attractive to Mr. Rochester, the real love of her
life.

Other themes include spiritual authenticity vs.
self-centered piety, and of course, the transcendental power of love. Any of these
themes might be considered the “main” theme of the novel Jane Eyre,
depending on personal interpretation, values and worldview.