Jane Eyre
The orphaned narrator, whose hunger for love is governed by an equally strong need for dignity and moral freedom.
Edward Rochester
The master of Thornfield, charismatic and emotionally candid but capable of deception and coercive planning.
Bertha Mason
Rochester's living wife, confined at Thornfield and used by the novel as both a human tragedy and Gothic double.
St. John Rivers
Jane's austere cousin, whose missionary purpose offers usefulness without emotional companionship.
Helen Burns
Jane's Lowood friend, whose endurance and faith shape Jane even when Jane cannot share her passivity.
Mrs. Reed
Jane's resentful aunt, who denies both affection and information about Jane's paternal family.
Miss Temple
The humane Lowood superintendent who clears Jane's name and models principled authority.
Adèle Varens
Jane's lively pupil at Thornfield and Rochester's ward.
Diana and Mary Rivers
Jane's newly discovered cousins, who provide the reciprocal family love she has long lacked.