It is in vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquility: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it. Millions are condemned to a stiller doom than mine, and millions are in silent revolt against their lot. Nobody knows how many rebellions besides political rebellions ferment in the masses of life which people earth.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 12. As she embarks on her her new life at Thornfield, Jane contemplates her position in society and that of marginalized and oppressed women like herself. Unhappy with their lot, she says that millions of women like her are in silent revolt – although the rebellious Jane is not one to suffer in silence. In this chapter, Bronte criticizes through the character of Jane the oppressive nature of Victorian society for women, especially those from the lower social classes.