Introduction
Jane Eyre has fled Edward Rochester’s house and arms in shame, after discovering he was hiding his insane wife in an attic. So when the Revd St John Rivers proposes a marriage of convenience followed by a life of self-sacrifice as missionaries in India, the heartbroken Jane gives the idea serious thought.
“WERE I but convinced that it is God’s will I should marry you, I could vow to marry you here and now — come afterwards what would!”
“My prayers are heard!” ejaculated St John.* He pressed his hand firmer on my head, as if he claimed me: he surrounded me with his arm, almost as if he loved me (I say almost — I knew the difference — for I had felt what it was to be loved; but, like him, I had now put love out of the question, and thought only of duty). I sincerely, deeply, fervently longed to do what was right; and only that.
“Show me, show me the path!” I entreated of Heaven. I was excited more than I had ever been; and whether what followed was the effect of excitement the reader shall judge.
The one candle was dying out: the room was full of moonlight. My heart beat fast and thick: I heard its throb. Suddenly it stood still to an inexpressible feeling that thrilled it through.
When it is a Christian name (i.e. a personal name, like Richard or Edward) St John is pronounced sin-jun.
Précis
Thinking over a proposal of marriage that she knows is about duty, not love, on both sides, Jane Eyre prays for guidance. The man who has made it, St John Rivers, thinks God’s answer is clear enough already, but in the stillness of late evening, Jane is suddenly gripped by some wordless conviction of her own. (56 / 60 words)
Thinking over a proposal of marriage that she knows is about duty, not love, on both sides, Jane Eyre prays for guidance. The man who has made it, St John Rivers, thinks God’s answer is clear enough already, but in the stillness of late evening, Jane is suddenly gripped by some wordless conviction of her own.
Variations: 1.increase the length of this precis to exactly 60 words. 2.reduce the length of this precis to exactly 50 words. 3.introduce one of the following words into the precis: although, because, despite, if, just, must, otherwise, whereas.
Word Games
Sevens Based on this passage
Suggest answers to this question. See if you can limit one answer to exactly seven words.
Variations: 1.expand your answer to exactly fourteen words. 2.expand your answer further, to exactly twenty-one words. 3.include one of the following words in your answer: if, but, despite, because, (al)though, unless.
Jigsaws Based on this passage
Express the ideas below in a single sentence, using different words as much as possible. Do not be satisfied with the first answer you think of; think of several, and choose the best.
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