Samantha Nicole Naria

ASCRIPT PTH1
Critical Essay: Jane Eyre

Sally Cookson's masterful interpretation of Charlotte Brontë's timeless tale, Jane Eyre,
graces the stage of London's National Theatre with a daring and empowering feminist flair.
Through this critical essay, I will delve into the show's intricate layers, exploring its Plot, Theme,
and Character, each one a vibrant thread woven into the tapestry of this captivating production.

Plot:

The plot of Sally Cookson’s production of Jane Eyre follows the basic structure of
Charlotte Brontë’s novel. The story follows Jane as she moves from an orphaned childhood
spent with her cruel aunt and cousins. She eventually finds a home and family with her job as a
governess at Thornfield Hall, the home of Edward Rochester, a wealthy landowner, who she
eventually falls in love with. However, Jane soon discovers that Rochester has a dark secret: he
is already married to a madwoman locked away in his attic. Through her trials and tribulations,
Jane develops a strong sense of self-worth and a desire for autonomy. As the story progresses,
Jane's relationship with Rochester becomes complicated. She is torn between her love for him
and her moral beliefs, as she cannot accept being the "other woman" in their relationship. This
conflict leads Jane to make the difficult decision to leave Thornfield Hall and start a new life
elsewhere. Jane then finds herself in the company of St. John Rivers and his sisters, who offer
her a sense of belonging and purpose. She becomes involved in their missionary work and finds
solace in helping others. However, Jane still longs for Rochester and realizes that she cannot
deny her feelings for him. Eventually, Jane receives news that Thornfield Hall has been
destroyed by a fire, and Rochester has lost his sight and one hand in the accident. Jane rushes
to his side and the two are reunited. They confess their love for each other and decide to marry,
despite the obstacles they have faced. Sally Cookson's production of Jane Eyre emphasizes
Jane's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. Through her experiences, she learns
to value herself and stand up for what she believes in. The production highlights themes of love,
independence, and the struggle for personal freedom.

Theme:
One of the main themes of the play is that of female empowerment. Jane’s journey to
find independence and self-fulfillment is a powerful example of a woman claiming control of her
own destiny. Her character arc is one of strength and resilience; she is determined to find her
place in the world and remain true to herself no matter what obstacles are thrown in her path.
This is seen throughout the show; even when faced with adversity, Jane never loses her sense
of self-worth or her desire to fight for what she believes in. This theme is also further highlighted
through the use of music, movement, and costume which emphasize female strength and
independence, exploring the concepts of identity, morality, and freedom. Cookson’s adaptation
brings new life to the classic story. The production includes bold and inventive staging and
choreography, including a scene where a group of children march around the stage carrying
large suitcases representing Jane’s journey. Through this creative use of staging, Cookson
evokes the struggle for independence and self-determination that are at the heart of Brontë’s
novel. Furthermore, the use of music in the production adds depth and emotion to Jane's
journey. The songs chosen are powerful and poignant, reflecting the inner thoughts and
emotions of the characters. They serve as a means for Jane to express her desires and
frustrations, further highlighting her determination to take control of her own life. The movement
in the play also plays a significant role in portraying female empowerment. The choreography is
dynamic and energetic, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the female characters.
Through their movements, they assert their agency and challenge societal norms and
expectations. Additionally, the costumes in the production also help to convey the theme of
female empowerment. The women are often dressed in bold and unconventional attire, defying
traditional gender roles and expectations. This visual representation of their independence and
individuality reinforces the idea that women can be strong and assertive.

Character:

The characters of Jane Eyre are also well developed in this adaptation. Jane is the
central character in the play and is portrayed as a strong and independent woman. Madeleine
Worrall’s depiction of Jane Eyre in the production was nothing short of remarkable. The actress’
ability to fully embody the emotional complexity and unwavering strength of Jane's character left
audiences in awe. She is determined to follow her own path and does not conform to society’s
expectations of women. However, a few critics argued that this interpretation of Jane was too
bold and contemporary, straying from the original portrayal in Brontë's novel. While it succeeded
in capturing the hearts of some, traditionalists may have felt that it compromised the authenticity
of the beloved character. Other characters include Edward Rochester, who is a difficult yet
charismatic figure with a mysterious past. The actor playing Rochester, Felix Hayes, brought a
brooding intensity to the role that added an air of intrigue. His chemistry with Worrall’s Jane was
palpable, creating a compelling dynamic between the two characters. Another standout
character in the adaptation is Bertha Mason, Rochester's first wife. Played by Melanie Marshall,
Bertha is depicted as a haunting and tormented presence. Her portrayal adds depth and
complexity to the story, shedding light on the dark secrets that reside within Thornfield Hall.

Overall, Sally Cookson’s production of Jane Eyre at the National Theatre in London is a
feminist adaptation that explores themes of female empowerment, identity, and freedom. The
plot follows Jane’s journey to find independence and self-fulfillment, while the characters,
particularly Jane herself, embody strength and defiance against societal norms. Through its use
of music, movement, and costume, the play further emphasizes female strength and
independence. This adaptation of Jane Eyre brings a fresh perspective to Charlotte Brontë’s
classic novel and highlights the importance of women’s agency and empowerment.
References:
https://stageagent.com/shows/play/17633/jane-eyre#:~:text=Synopsis,Jane%20craves%20freed
om%20and%20change.

https://www.voicemag.uk/review/7103/review-of-sally-cooksons-national-theatre-jane-eyre

https://www.voicemag.uk/review/7103/review-of-sally-cooksons-national-theatre-jane-eyre