Jane's open defiance of her unjust and tyrannical aunt has led to her dismissal from Gateshead Hall. She's to go instead to Lowood School, where strict discipline is in order.

Conditions have improved at Lowood School, and Jane finds a measure of contentment, first as pupil and later as teacher.

Happy in her new post, Jane gets on with a new pupil, Adele, and the housekeeper, Mrs. Fairfax. She also meets her new employer, Mr. Rochester.

Jane is baffled and fascinated by her employer, Mr. Rochester, who seems more than usually interested in her.

Mr. Rochester is entertaining guests and Jane is perturbed by his evident fondness for Blanche Ingram.

Summoned by her dying aunt, Jane returns to Gateshead Hall, scene of her unhappy childhood.

Mr. Briggs interrupts the wedding of Jane and Mr. Rochester with the claim that the marriage cannot proceed, as Mr. Rochester has a wife.

Jane wanders the moors, poor, starving, and heartbroken, until she is rescued.

A destitute Jane has found sanctuary with the Rivers family and has a new post as teacher at the local school.

Jane is about to accept John Rivers' proposal when she hears Rochester's voice calling her.