- Her social position as a governess

-Jane takes a special interest in observing Blanche, knowing of

Rochester’'s interest in her.

-Although Rochester’'s attention is on Blanche Ingram, he is aware of Jane’'s every move. When she tries to slip out of the parlor to go to bed, Rochester catches her and inquires why she looks so depressed.

-She accepts that people like Mr. Rochester must marry for social reasons and to gain family connection.

1. Jane vs. Blanche

When she first observes the guests, Jane compares herself unfavorably to them also, dwelling on their height and elegance. However, after observing Blanche, Jane finds her to be a phony and asserts that Rochester couldn't possibly love her. She feels he must be marrying her for political reasons.

2. Social Class

Jane is a figure of ambiguous class standing and, consequently, a source of extreme tension for the characters around her. Jane’'s manners, sophistication, and education are those of an aristocrat. Yet Jane remains penniless and powerless. Jane’s understanding of the double standard crystallizes when she becomes aware of her feelings for Rochester; she is his intellectual, but not his social, equal. Jane’'s distress seems to be Brontë’'s critique of Victorian class attitudes.

3. Growing Love

By this stage of the story, the narrative has begun to focus increasingly on the potential relationship between Jane and Rochester. Jane continues to fascinate Rochester, and there are many indications of his growing love for her. He seeks out her companionship even while entertaining house guests, and notices her feelings, commenting on her depression.....The most telling tip-off occurs at the end of Chapter 17, when Rochester nearly calls Jane “"my love”" before biting his tongue. The tension surrounding Jane’'s and Rochester’'s relationship derives not from the question of whether Rochester loves Jane, but from whether he will be able to act upon his feelings. So far, two obstacles—-Blanche and the dark secrets of Thornfield Hall—-stand in Rochester’s way.