Similarities And Differences Between Jane Eyre And Matilda

Jane Eyre and Matilda are two classic novels that have been turned into theatre productions with very similar plots in ways. Jane Eyre and Matilda both feature an underprivileged, young lead female that escapes the harsh realities with the wonderful world of books and knowledge. Both tell the stories of young, independent women that never see themselves as victims, but overcome their unfortunate circumstances without sacrificing their self-worth and dignity. However, the ways in which two plays are turned into stage adaptions are very peculiar from one another. What makes the reproduction of renowned novels burdensome is the nature of contemporary theatrical production, which demands subtle and courageous adaptions to a worldly and†¦show more content†¦On the other hand, Jane Eyre is on the complete opposite spectrum by using minimal props and physical theatre, and requiring performers to play many parts in the simple, yet dynamic performance. Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre is known as a classic novel due to its disturbing, thrilling and intense love story between Jane and Mr. Rochester and dark secrets about former lovers. What put this novel above and beyond at its time was Bronte’s complex characters and Jane’s pursuit for independence and her ability to question authorities, which was unheard of. Bronte’s novel was a bold statement when published and this bold adaption of Jane Eyre is exactly what one would hope for after encountering the novel. The use of minimal props allows Bronte’s message that she conveyed in her novel to shine through by allowing for less distractions in these complex characters. However, the use of physical theatre can be very difficult to execute with certain aspects, and one of those is Pilot, Mr. Rochester’s friendly companion. In the performance, played by Paul Mundell, every time Mundell switched characters to Pilot a hushed chuckle would fill the walls of the theatre. In the nov el, Pilot’s protectiveness and obedience to Rochester are not as humorous as they were in the theatre. However, other aspects of the novel are enhanced beautifully from the novel with the use of physical