How would you best describe the central idea of this chapter? Which phrase from the chapter best helps develop the central idea?
On the surface, the central idea of the passage is for Mr. Brocklehurst to teach the girls how to live a life where they are patient and self denying. This main idea is best developed by the phrase, "Madam, allow me an instant. You are aware that my plan in bringing up these girls is, not to accustom them to habits of luxury and indulgence but to render them hardy, patient, self-denying." Here we had just been informed that the girls had received some form of a treat. For example, two girls needed to meet for tea time so they received a clean cloak to put on and also, all the girls were given a spoiled meal so Miss temple replaced that meal with a edible one, saying that she didn't want the girls to remain fasting until dinner. Mr. Brocklehurst did not approve of these special conditions. He believed that they pampered the body and as a result would obviate from the aim of the institution. Mr. Brocklehurst is very set in his ways and has very strong beliefs. What is interesting about this excerpt is to see how the different characters react to his beliefs. The teacher, Miss Temple, does not necessarily agree with Mr. Brocklehurst, but she does what she is told anyway. She is a conformist, even if she has to cover her face with her handkerchief if necessary. Another interesting character is the narrator. She dropped her slate which crashed to the floor. She was brought to the front of the room and yelled at for her careless behavior. It is interesting how despite being yelled at and shunned for the rest of the day how she conducted herself on the stool. She never got upset or outraged but instead she sat on the stool with a lot of pride. She received this pride from the smile of a girl who walked by, that girl was viewed by the narrater as a martyr. Lastly, it is interesting to acknowledge the group of lavishly dressed girls that appear in high quality furs and velvet cloaks. It is interesting that these girls are introduced right after Mr. Brocklehurst finished his speech about the importance of modesty. The introduction of these women almost diminished the importance of Mr. Brocklehurst for his views were combated by a group of high class teenaged girls. Looking deeper into the excerpt it is clear that the central idea is in fact how to deal with struggle. And struggle in this excerpt is symbolized by Mr. Brocklehurst.
