Unveiling the Allure of Elizabeth Taylor: A Film Analysis of ‘Jane Eyre’

Love, friendship, betrayal, perseverance, and morality. These are the things that come to mind when you think about Jane Eyre. The timeless classic doesn’t just entertain; it speaks directly to the soul and takes you through an emotional rollercoaster as you see the masterful depiction of Charlotte Brontë’s book of the same name.

But, as any film critic would say, it’s not the story that makes a film truly stand out, but the contributions of the artists towards their characters. And this couldn’t be truer for the role of Elizabeth Taylor in Jane Eyre.

At just 11 years old at the time, Elizabeth Tylor embodied the role of Hellen Burns in a majestic performance that not only got her some of the best reviews of her career but also won her an Academy Award.

But that’s not all there is to it. Come with us as we explore Elizabeth Tylor’s masterful adaptation of her character and the role she played in making Jane Eyre the timeless masterpiece it is.

The Magnetic Charm of Elizabeth Tylor As Hellen Burns

Elizabeth Taylor plays the role of Hellen Burns, a gentle, kind-hearted young girl who becomes Jane Eyre’s closest and only friend at the Lowood School. Her unique attitude towards life acts as a foil to both Jane and Mr. Brocklehurst, who most critics consider a hypocrite.

While Mr. Brocklehurst portrays an evangelical form of religion that seeks to strip every ounce of pride and ability to enjoy worldly things from those around him, Hellen embodies a form of Christianity centered around acceptance and tolerance. So, in a way, her role contradicts Mr. Brocklehurst’s thirst for power and control with true faith, the one that makes someone turn the other cheek rather than seek control or vengeance.

Despite her rather timid nature, though, Hellen manifests an intellectual maturity. And the strength that helps her get through the turmoils of life presented in the form of abuse from her aunt and faculty at the school.

However, the mere fact that she doesn’t voice her opinion and takes a self-negating approach to issues around her confuses Jane. Like Hellen, Jane is an orphan longing for her home but stranded in a chaotic environment. But, unlike Hellen, Jane stands up for herself in the face of her abusers. Their interaction brings out Jane’s strong and ambitious character while making her question her perception of life.

The Journey to Transformation

Right from the start, Elizabeth’s character, Hellen, has unwavering faith and inner strength. Despite the harsh conditions she endures at Lowood School, Hellen maintains a positive outlook, with hope for a better home in Heaven. Coupled with her genuine friendship with Jane, this gives a sliver of hope and provides her with a deep emotional connection as she adapts to her new home.

Throughout their friendship, Hellen’s spiritual beliefs and philosophical views towards life deeply impact Jane. Hellen’s guiding influence changes Jane’s perspective, encouraging her to embrace forgiveness and understanding. In the end, this creates a lasting effect on Jane as she starts to see the world with more compassion and a deeper sense of morality.

As the story progresses, Hellen eventually succumbs to a typhus outbreak at the school and suffers deeply before her demise. But, despite her suffering, she remains steadfast in her beliefs and accepts her mortality. Jane, who is by her side throughout her ordeal, sees this, and it changes her. The once bitter soul who’d almost lost all hope in life becomes more introspective and appreciative of life’s precious moments.

Spiritual Legacy and Cultural Impact

Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Hellen’s final moments remains one of the most captivating experiences in film history. Her embodiment of the character’s pain, strength, and unwavering faith leaves a lasting spiritual legacy in the film. Her masterful embodiment of true Christian values like forgiveness, love, and endurance influence Jane’s choices and actions long after losing her friend and confidant.

A Film for the Ages

Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Hellen Burns in Jane Eyre leaves a lasting impact on the film’s narrative and the audience’s emotional experience. She may have had a limited time on the screen, but her masterful embodiment of Hellen’s personality leaves an impact on everyone she interacts with.

For the people at the Lowood School, she demonstrates the power of hope and perseverance. Her unwavering friendship, faith, and philosophical guidance leave a lasting impact on Jane, who carries these virtues throughout the story.

Elizabeth Taylor will remain one of the most impactful actresses of her generation. Her magnificent presence brought life to any story she told, and her love of humanity demonstrated through her various acts of charity proves she wasn’t just right for the role; she was made for it.