Self-determined: Jane Eyre and Elizabeth Bennet
Jane Eyre, Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre, a novel by Charlotte Brontë, tells the story of a young woman who stands out for her strong will, intelligence and independence. Jane Eyre, the protagonist, describes her life in first-person narration, depicting her tragic childhood, her work as a teacher at Thornfield Hall, and then meeting Mr. Rochester, with whom she falls in love. Jane’s devotion to her values and conscience as she makes difficult decisions inspires the reader, as does Jane’s journey to discover her inner strength and self-esteem as she seeks love, loyalty and liberty.
Jane Eyre is set in West Yorkshire, England. For readers who want to experience the spirit of the story, here’s a link for flights to the UK.
Elizabeth Bennet, Pride and Prejudice
Elizabeth Bennet is a main character in Jane Austen’s unforgettable novel Pride and Prejudice. A vibrant, intelligent and independent young woman, Elizabeth defies traditional gender roles in nineteenth-century England to pursue her own happiness. This delightful story will captivate reader as Elizabeth speaks on issues such as a woman’s right to education, free will, and equality within romantic relationships.
Defying the odds: Katniss Everdeen and Scout Finch
Katniss Everdeen, The Hunger Games
A more recent example of a strong female character is Katniss Everdeen, the courageous and complex protagonist of Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games series. Set in a dystopian future, the book tells of Katniss Everdeen extraordinary resolution and inner strength in protecting and caring for her family, her subsequent participation in the “Hunger Games”, and her inner determination to combat Panem’s injustices. Everdeen’s sensitivity to human suffering inspires compassion in the reader.
Scout Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee in 1960, is considered one of the most important works in American literature, winning a Pulitzer Prize in 1961. Narrated by a young girl named Scout Finch, the story is set in a small town in Alabama and depicts racial injustice, delving into concepts like prejudice, justice and goodness.
A dance of power and elegancy: Daenerys Targaryen and Hermione Granger
Daenerys Targaryen, A Song of Fire and Ice
Daenerys Targaryen, the last heir of House Targaryen, is one of the most important characters in George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire and the adapted TV series Game of Thrones. For those who are not familiar with the story, Daenerys has lost her parents and her brother arranges a marriage between her and Khal Drogo, leader of the Dothraki tribe. When Drogo dies, Daenerys is left alone and widowed in a cruel and harsh world. The innocent and defenseless girl grows stronger and takes control of her own destiny. Known as the Mother of Dragons, she is feared by her rivals and beloved by her subjects. Daenerys Targaryen gradually develops into a leader – but the story goes even further.
Hermione Granger, Harry Potter
In J.K. Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter series, we witness the evolution of another leader, Hermione Granger. As she becomes one of Harry’s closest friends, Hermione demonstrates her intelligence, bravery and loyalty, joining Harry and Ron on various quests and adventures while striving to be one of the best students at Hogwarts. Hermione’s strong sense of justice is clearly evident and this, along with her courage, and determination, make her a strong role model for young readers, as well as one of the most inspiring heroes in the magical world.
