Why did Rochester marry Bertha?
Charlotte Brontë's classic novel, "Jane Eyre," continues to captivate readers over a century after its publication. One plot point that has long intrigued scholars and fans alike is Edward Rochester's marriage to Bertha Mason. This essay aims to analyze this plot point in light of Joe Heinrich's concepts of kin networks and institutions in the West, compared to other regions of the world. Additionally, the role of the Catholic Church in shaping western inheritance systems will be explored to further our understanding of Rochester's motivations in marrying Bertha.
The Marriage of Rochester and Bertha
At first glance, the marriage between Rochester and Bertha might seem illogical. Bertha is portrayed as a mentally ill woman locked away in the attic, and her presence serves as a major obstacle to the romantic relationship between Jane and Rochester. However, understanding the cultural and institutional contexts of the time can shed light on the reasons behind this union.
Kin Networks and Institutions in the West
Joe Heinrich argues that Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) nations differ from the rest of the world in terms of kin networks and institutions. In these societies, kinship ties are weaker, and individuals are more inclined to rely on formal institutions for support and resources. In contrast, non-Western societies tend to have stronger kin networks, with individuals relying on their families for resources, support, and even spouses.
Rochester, being part of the British aristocracy in the early 19th century, would have faced unique societal expectations and pressures regarding marriage. As a member of the upper class, his marriage would have been as much a political and economic alliance as a personal union. The Mason family's wealth and connections would have been strong incentives for Rochester to marry Bertha, despite her deteriorating mental health.
The Role of the Catholic Church
The Catholic Church played a significant role in shaping Western inheritance systems. It discouraged cousin marriages and promoted the nuclear family model, which in turn fostered a more individualistic society. The Catholic Church's influence is evident in "Jane Eyre," as the characters' religious beliefs often dictate their actions and decisions.
Although the novel is set in a predominantly Protestant England, the Catholic Church's historical influence on Western marriage and inheritance systems is still relevant. For instance, the doctrine of primogeniture, which ensured that the eldest son inherited the majority of his father's property, was a driving force behind the economic motivations for marriage among the British upper class. By marrying Bertha, Rochester would have secured his own financial future and increased his family's wealth and social standing.
In conclusion, Rochester's marriage to Bertha in "Jane Eyre" can be understood by examining the kin networks and institutions that were prevalent in Western societies during the time. The unique pressures faced by the British aristocracy, influenced by the Catholic Church's historical impact on marriage and inheritance systems, led Rochester to prioritize his family's wealth and social standing over his own personal happiness. By considering these cultural and institutional factors, we can better understand the complex dynamics at play in this classic novel.
