How did geography play a role in Jane Eyre?

Question

gracygirl · Answer

phyniverse <-- credit goes to her

Each place has a particular and different topographical location, the place names indicating stages of the pilgrimage. The setting of the story is carefully divided into five distinct locales, each of which has its particular significance in Jane's history and each of which is like an act in a five-act drama. 
Gateshead – the beginning
Lowood – low wood – a low point for Jane and one where vision and progress is hampered.
Thornfield – a place of difficulty and trial
Moor House – the wide open place suggestive of freedom/spaciousness
Ferndean – suggestive of green-ness and fertility, therefore fulfilment & creativity
The action takes place in and around a particular house or other building
Each move marks a stage in Jane's fortunes, development and sense of her own identity
The places are therefore related to the novel's thematic content.