Surprising parallels: How Still Up is similar to Jane Eyre

In the episode "The Dress" of the popular show Still Up, we follow the daily trials and tribulations of Lisa, a hardworking woman navigating the complexities of her personal and professional life. While the episode covers a range of themes and experiences, one cultural touchpoint that stands out in this narrative is the classic novel Jane Eyre. Through various parallels and comparisons, we can explore the connections between "The Dress" and the enduring story of Jane Eyre, shedding light on the universal themes that resonate across different time periods and mediums.Firstly, let's delve into the character of Lisa and how she embodies the strong and independent spirit of Jane Eyre. Lisa, much like Jane, is a determined and resilient protagonist. Despite facing continuous hardships and setbacks, both women refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Jane Eyre overcomes her difficult upbringing and finds strength in her convictions, eventually carving a path of her own choosing. Similarly, Lisa grapples with personal struggles, including her daughter's bedtime routine and a potential health issue, yet she continually stands her ground and remains resilient in the face of adversity.Another notable connection between "The Dress" and Jane Eyre is the theme of self-discovery. In Jane Eyre, the titular character embarks on a journey of self-realization, eventually finding her true identity and asserting her worth. Lisa, too, undergoes a process of self-discovery throughout the episode. She reaches out to someone on a dating app, revealing her vulnerability and desires for connection. This act represents a turning point for Lisa, as she starts to explore her own needs and wants, just as Jane Eyre does on her quest for love and fulfillment.One of the most significant similarities between the two narratives lies in the exploration of societal expectations and constraints. Jane Eyre, set in the Victorian era, challenges the societal norms of the time, particularly regarding gender roles and class distinctions. Lisa, in the contemporary setting of "The Dress," also confronts societal expectations, albeit in different ways. Lisa's refusal of Alonso's marriage proposal due to his wife reflects her unwillingness to conform to an unethical situation. Additionally, her struggle to connect with Amy on the dating app stems from her fear of intimacy and insecurities about her self-image. Both characters grapple with societal expectations, demonstrating the universal nature of these challenges across different time periods.Moreover, the stolen dress in "The Dress" serves as a symbolic representation, much like the "madwoman in the attic" in Jane Eyre. In the classic novel, the character of Bertha Mason, hidden away from society, symbolizes repressed desires and the consequences of societal constraints. Lisa's stolen dress, similarly, represents her repressed desires and the ways in which society can restrict and confine her sense of self. However, both narratives ultimately depict the characters breaking free from these constraints and asserting their individuality.In conclusion, the episode "The Dress" of Still Up presents intriguing parallels to the classic novel Jane Eyre. Through the exploration of strong, independent protagonists, themes of self-discovery, and the challenges posed by societal expectations, both narratives transcend time and medium to highlight the timeless struggles of individuals seeking fulfillment and independence. Whether it be Jane Eyre's journey through the 19th century or Lisa's journey in a contemporary urban setting, the human spirit and quest for self-realization remain universal themes that continue to captivate audiences across different cultures and generations.