AS and A Level: Bronte Sisters

Conclusion analysis

Good conclusions usually refer back to the question or title and address it directly - for example by using key words from the title.
How well do you think these conclusions address the title or question? Answering these questions should help you find out.

1. Do they use key words from the title or question?
2. Do they answer the question directly?
3. Can you work out the question or title just by reading the conclusion?

• Closely analyse the presentation of Rochesters character in Jane Eyre. In the course of your writing make comparisons with the way Rochester is presented in Wide Sargasso Sea.

  "Although similar and comparable, the characters of Bront�'s Rochester and Rhys's Rochester are placed in different cultures, written in different centuries and have different circumstances. Rhys's villain is not given the fond treatment that Bront�'s Byronic hero is at the end; however, the presentation of both characters is consistent in many areas. Rochester, despite redeeming himself at the conclusion of the novel, is a symbol of the male oppression, of the patriarchal society and of the lies and deceit which bring about Antoinette's imprisonment and almost bring about Jane's. Words: 1644"

• 'Rochester is master and Jane a passive victim.' Discuss power and control in Jane and Rochester's relationship.

  "In conclusion, I believe that the statement, ‘Rochester is master and Jane a passive victim,’ is not true to some extent. Throughout the novel, there are hints to support this statement however Jane is shown to be an outspoken woman who gives outbursts of her thoughts. She follows and obeys Mr Rochester as he is her master, throughout the novel Jane is heavily dependant on other people therefore she may find pleasure in Mr Rochester’s attention."

• While Heathcliff and Edgar act as foils for one another, it is more useful to consider their function in the novel as individuals. Discuss

  "In conclusion I believe that the only way to gain a thorough understanding of these characters is to view them both as individuals and as a contrasting pair. The insight gained from observing their actions within themselves provides a foundation of knowledge which can then be built on by considering their value and consequence in relation to each other's actions."