Chapter VII

Question 1

After three months, what sudden event breaks the routine of Lowood?

Answer 1

The arrival of Mr. Brocklehurst for an official inspection/visit.

Question 2

What does Mr. Brocklehurst notice about one of the girls’ hairstyles?

Answer 2

He notices that the girl’s hair is naturally curly, which he deems too worldly and therefore sinful.

Question 3

What is Mr. Brocklehurst’s ruling on the girls’ hair and appearance?

Answer 3

He orders that the hair of all girls with curls be cut off to conform to a simple, uniform style.

Question 4

What happens to Jane while Mr. Brocklehurst is addressing the school?

Answer 4

She drops and shatters her slate (a writing tablet) out of nervousness.

Question 5

How does Mr. Brocklehurst punish Jane for this mistake?

Answer 5

He forces her to stand on a stool in the middle of the large room for half an hour.

Question 6

What public accusation does Mr. Brocklehurst make against Jane?

Answer 6

He calls her a “liar” and a “child of the Evil One,” repeating Mrs. Reed’s earlier charge.

Question 7

What command does he give to the other girls regarding Jane?

Answer 7

He orders them to shun her and to hold no communication with her.

Question 8

How does Jane feel while standing on the stool and being publicly humiliated?

Answer 8

She feels overwhelming shame and despair, believing her life is ruined.

Question 9

Who is the only person who shows Jane support while she is on the stool?

Answer 9

Helen Burns, who offers Jane a “smile of encouragement” as she passes.

Question 10

After her punishment, where does Jane go, and who joins her?

Answer 10

She goes to a dark corner and is joined by Helen Burns.

Question 11

What is Jane’s greatest fear after Mr. Brocklehurst’s accusation?

Answer 11

That all the girls and teachers will now believe she is a liar and shun her permanently.

Question 12

What comforting assurance does Helen give Jane?

Answer 12

She assures Jane that the girls already dislike Mr. Brocklehurst and will not believe his accusations.

Question 13

What is Miss Temple’s role in comforting and aiding Jane?

Answer 13

She calls Jane and Helen to her room, gives them food, and questions Jane privately.

Question 14

What does Jane ask Miss Temple to do to clear her name?

Answer 14

To write a letter to Mr. Lloyd (the apothecary) and ask him to confirm her honesty.

Question 15

What does Miss Temple promise to do for Jane?

Answer 15

She promises to write the letter immediately and have Jane’s name cleared.