The Madwoman in the Attic

A portrait of Bertha Mason Rochester, the madwoman of my favourite book, Jane Eyre.

Bertha Rochester has always been a fascinating character for me. Every time I read the book, I find myself wondering if she's really mentally ill or just a woman accused of "hysteria." Who knows?

I wanted to depict Bertha's frustration with being trapped in the attic and wanting to get out. She's furious with Edward for keeping her there and wants to be known. He may, in near future, try to save her from her suicide, but she will never forgive him.

And before you ask, yes. I have read Wide Sargasso Sea. Doesn't mean I liked it. Personally, I prefer to keep Bertha's character ambiguous. I don't want to know where she comes from or how she came into the picture because I prefer to keep questioning her character for myself.