Formally investigated after the typhus epidemic and found at fault for the “unhealthy nature of the site; the quantity and quality of the children’s food; the brackish, fetid water used in its preparation; the pupils’ wretched clothing and accommodations” (203-204), Mr. Brocklehurst is replaced by a better administration, and the conditions of the school greatly improve.

For eight years, Jane continues her studies at Lowood, excelling in all subjects under Miss Temple’s mentorship. For two of these years, Jane becomes a teacher herself, following Miss Temple’s model. When Miss Temple marries a clergyman and leaves the school, Jane decides to seek a new environment.

Jane advertises herself in the Herald newspaper as a governess and receives only one reply to her posting from a housekeeper named Miss Fairfax. In her letter, Miss Fairfax tells Jane that she seeks a governess for a 10-year-old girl at a country manor called Thornfield. Jane eagerly accepts the job and prepares to leave.

Bessie and her young son visit Jane before she goes. Bessie joyfully reveals that she is now married with two children, one of whom she has named Jane. Bessie gushes over Jane’s accomplishments as a French speaker, a seamstress, and an artist.