British literature brings readers joy and sorrow

"I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will." --- Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre is a coming-of-age story of a poor young woman who pursues freedom and dignity and finally achieves happiness.

"I would always rather be happy than dignified."

"I care for myself. The more solitary, the more friendless, the more unsustained I am, the more I will respect myself."

"Life appears to me too short to be spent in nursing animosity or registering wrongs."

 --- Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte