The Bronte Sisters: Three Novels
There is no doubt the Bronte sisters Charlotte, Emily, and Anne were talented writers of their time, and their famous works have only gained popularity since their publication over two centuries ago.
Charlotte’s Jane Eyre follows a young orphan whose life takes many twists and turns as she leaves the neglectful care of a distant relative until she lands on Mr. Rochester’s doorstep as the new governess for his ward. Jane’s moral spirit, her passion, and determination make her a compelling character. She faces many challenges in her story, but maintains her kind spirit throughout it all. I love how Charlotte wrote Jane’s love story and found the ending perfectly tied up any loose ends.
Although Emily’s story, Wuthering Heights, wasn’t as popular as Jane Eyre when it was originally released, Emily’s work has since made its mark on the literary world. Emily’s decision to narrate Mr. Heathcliff’s story through the eyes of the manor’s maid was interesting, but it worked. I didn’t care much for Heathcliff as a character, nor his obsession with Catherine. However, the way Emily wrote the slow-blooming romance between Catherine’s daughter and Heathcliff’s nephew was well done. Overall, I liked Wuthering Heights, but didn’t love it.
Agnes Grey was also not very popular when it was published, but I really enjoyed Anne’s story. Her focus on the difficulties governesses face invoked compassion in me as I read what Agnes faced at both her workplaces. Agnes’ sense of duty to her charges often put her in situations that harmed rather than helped her, yet she did get her happy ending. A school to run with her mother, and a compassionate husband? Sounds like a dream come true for this educated, kind young woman!
Charlotte, Emily, and Anne created three amazing novels, and I only wish they had survived their illnesses so we could see their craft develop further.
The Bronte Sisters: Three Novels Rating: ★★★★★
Charlotte’s Jane Eyre follows a young orphan whose life takes many twists and turns as she leaves the neglectful care of a distant relative until she lands on Mr. Rochester’s doorstep as the new governess for his ward. Jane’s moral spirit, her passion, and determination make her a compelling character. She faces many challenges in her story, but maintains her kind spirit throughout it all. I love how Charlotte wrote Jane’s love story and found the ending perfectly tied up any loose ends.
Although Emily’s story, Wuthering Heights, wasn’t as popular as Jane Eyre when it was originally released, Emily’s work has since made its mark on the literary world. Emily’s decision to narrate Mr. Heathcliff’s story through the eyes of the manor’s maid was interesting, but it worked. I didn’t care much for Heathcliff as a character, nor his obsession with Catherine. However, the way Emily wrote the slow-blooming romance between Catherine’s daughter and Heathcliff’s nephew was well done. Overall, I liked Wuthering Heights, but didn’t love it.
Agnes Grey was also not very popular when it was published, but I really enjoyed Anne’s story. Her focus on the difficulties governesses face invoked compassion in me as I read what Agnes faced at both her workplaces. Agnes’ sense of duty to her charges often put her in situations that harmed rather than helped her, yet she did get her happy ending. A school to run with her mother, and a compassionate husband? Sounds like a dream come true for this educated, kind young woman!
Charlotte, Emily, and Anne created three amazing novels, and I only wish they had survived their illnesses so we could see their craft develop further.
The Bronte Sisters: Three Novels Rating: ★★★★★