“ I would always rather be happy than dignified ”
Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre (16 October 1847). copy citation
| Author | Charlotte Brontë |
|---|---|
| Source | Jane Eyre |
| Topic | happiness dignity |
| Date | 16 October 1847 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1260/1260-h/1260-h.htm |
Context
“I—who, though I had no love, had much friendship for him—was hurt by the marked omission: so much hurt that tears started to my eyes.
«I see you and St. John have been quarrelling, Jane,» said Diana, «during your walk on the moor. But go after him; he is now lingering in the passage expecting you—he will make it up.»
I have not much pride under such circumstances: I would always rather be happy than dignified; and I ran after him—he stood at the foot of the stairs. «Good-night, St. John,» said I.
«Good-night, Jane,» he replied calmly. «Then shake hands,» I added. What a cold, loose touch, he impressed on my fingers! He was deeply displeased by what had occurred that day; cordiality would not warm, nor tears move him.” source
«I see you and St. John have been quarrelling, Jane,» said Diana, «during your walk on the moor. But go after him; he is now lingering in the passage expecting you—he will make it up.»
I have not much pride under such circumstances: I would always rather be happy than dignified; and I ran after him—he stood at the foot of the stairs. «Good-night, St. John,» said I.
«Good-night, Jane,» he replied calmly. «Then shake hands,» I added. What a cold, loose touch, he impressed on my fingers! He was deeply displeased by what had occurred that day; cordiality would not warm, nor tears move him.” source
Meaning and analysis
