Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre

mr rochester and st john are similar in some ways but different in other ways.how does their similarities and differences have an impact on jane the protoganist of the novel?

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Stoical, cold, and strictly devoted to Christianity, St. John's religion is far too detached for Jane. He refuses to give in to his love for Rosamond Oliver out of a warped sense of duty to God, and Jane concludes that he still knows little about God's love. Although St. John does not love Jane, he believes that she would be suited to missionary work in India and thus, asks her to marry him.

Mr. Rochester is an interesting twist on the tragic Byronic hero; though not handsome in a strict sense, his great passion and forcefulness make him an extremely appealing and sensual character in Jane's perspective. Mr. Rochester is also a sympathetic character because of the mistakes he has made in his past: deceived by Bertha Mason's external beauty, Mr. Rochester is constantly brooding and rejecting the darkness of his decision.

As you can see, both are passionate men but in different ways. Mr. Rochester is certainly a more sympathetic character than St. John. 

Source(s)

http://www.gradesaver.com/jane-eyre/study-guide/character-list