Chapter XX

Question 1

What does Mr. Rochester reveal about his past that led him to his current dilemma?

Answer 1

He was the victim of a forced, loveless marriage with a woman who proved to be unstable.

Question 2

What story does Mr. Rochester tell Jane that he frames as a fictional confession?

Answer 2

The story of a young man who was forced to marry a woman who turned out to be mad.

Question 3

What does the young man in the story do to find a “cure” for his unhappy life?

Answer 3

He searches the world for a “sympathizing and fresh acquaintance” (a true partner).

Question 4

What has the fictional young man found that he believes will save him?

Answer 4

A “poor, obscure, plain” girl who is his true soulmate.

Question 5

What does the fictional young man plan to do to secure his happiness?

Answer 5

To marry his soulmate and live out his life with her.

Question 6

What does Mr. Rochester ask Jane after he finishes the “story”?

Answer 6

He asks Jane if the young man’s decision to marry his soulmate is morally defensible.

Question 7

How does Jane interpret the meaning of the fictional story?

Answer 7

She believes Mr. Rochester is referring to Blanche Ingram as the “soulmate” who will save him.

Question 8

What advice does Jane give him, believing he is speaking of Blanche?

Answer 8

She tells him he should marry the one he truly loves, even if she is poor, not for wealth.

Question 9

What does Mr. Rochester reveal about the mysterious “obstacle” in his life?

Answer 9

He says the obstacle is Grace Poole—her existence makes him unhappy.

Question 10

What does Mr. Rochester then ask Jane to do, believing she’s speaking of Blanche?

Answer 10

He asks her to witness his wedding to Miss Ingram.

Question 11

How does Jane manage to hide her pain and grief from Mr. Rochester?

Answer 11

She forces herself to remain calm, rational, and composed, speaking only of Adèle.

Question 12

What does Mr. Rochester give Jane before she leaves the garden?

Answer 12

A small sum of money for Adèle’s new dress.

Question 13

What does Jane observe about Mr. Rochester’s eyes as he looks at her during this exchange?

Answer 13

He is observing her with a deep, intent gaze, trying to read her heart.

Question 14

How does Jane feel about the conversation and her role in Mr. Rochester’s life?

Answer 14

She feels misunderstood and resigned to her fate of being his unseen comfort.

Question 15

What does Jane decide about her immediate future after the conversation?

Answer 15

She resolves to control her feelings, wait for the wedding, and find a new post after the marriage.