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Jane Eyre: An Autobiography

Chapter 3: NOTE TO THE THIRD EDITION
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About This Book

A first-person narrative traces an orphaned woman's progression from a deprived childhood under unsympathetic relatives to professional independence as a governess in a remote household. She develops a complex emotional attachment to the household's enigmatic master while confronting moral dilemmas, secrets that unsettle domestic order, and choices that test conscience and self-respect. The narrative interleaves episodes of hardship, self-examination, and decisive departures, charting inner growth toward autonomy. Recurring concerns include social class and gender constrictions, religious sincerity versus hypocrisy, personal integrity, and the search for reciprocal affection and moral reconciliation.

NOTE TO THE THIRD EDITION

I avail myself of the opportunity which a third edition of “Jane Eyre” affords me, of again addressing a word to the Public, to explain that my claim to the title of novelist rests on this one work alone. If, therefore, the authorship of other works of fiction has been attributed to me, an honour is awarded where it is not merited; and consequently, denied where it is justly due.

This explanation will serve to rectify mistakes which may already have been made, and to prevent future errors.

CURRER BELL.

April 13th, 1848.