Jane Eyre · Character

Adèle Varens

Rochester's vivacious French ward, all chatter and curls, who gives Jane her first pupil and Thornfield its only unguarded warmth.

supporting

Also known as Adèle, Miss Adèle, little Adèle, Little Adèle, Mademoiselle Adela, Mademoiselle, Miss Adela, Adela

First appearance: Chapter XI

As a supporting figure in Jane Eyre, Adèle Varens is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Jane's pupil, a young French-speaking girl who is Mr.

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Adèle arrives at Thornfield as a child of Paris, the daughter of a dancer Rochester once loved, and she treats Jane as both teacher and friend. Her endless talk and theatrical affection contrast with the house's cold…

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See Adèle Varens in Chapter XI

Character Web

14 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Gateshead and Thornfield associates
Minor and background characters
Protagonist

+9 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point

This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Jane’s repressed desir…

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In the story

Adèle Varens appears across 16 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Chapter XI
Jane's pupil, a young French-speaking girl who is Mr. Rochester's ward.
XII
Jane's pupil, a lively but wayward child who becomes obedient under Jane's care.
Chapter XIII
Adèle is restless and excited about Mr. Rochester's return, hoping for presents. She kneels by Pilot during tea and tries to advocate for a gift for Jane.
XIV
Adèle receives a gift box and is occupied with it, allowing Jane and Rochester to converse privately.
Chapter XV
Adèle plays with Pilot and a shuttlecock; Jane cares for her and defends her despite her illegitimate origins.
XVI
Adèle is present in the schoolroom drawing and later interrupts the conversation between Jane and Mrs. Fairfax.
XVII
Excited about the guests and prepares eagerly for the evening, but is eventually sent to bed.
Chapter XVIII
Mentioned as a target of Blanche Ingram's spiteful antipathy.
XXII
Half wild with delight upon seeing Jane, nestles close to her during tea.
Chapter XXIII
Adèle runs to Jane in the morning to report that the great horse-chestnut tree has been split by lightning.
Chapter XXIV
Adèle is eager to join the trip to Millcote but is initially refused by Rochester, though Jane later intercedes on her behalf.
XXV
Adèle sleeps peacefully in the nursery; Jane holds her through the night and weeps over her before leaving at dawn.
XXVII
Jane mentions she must leave Adèle as part of her departure from Thornfield.
Chapter XXXVI
Mentioned as having been put to school by Mr. Rochester.
Conclusion
Jane visits her at school, brings her home, and places her in a better school.
Endnotes
Referenced through the French phrases and the mention of 'Mademoiselle' and 'Mama'.

Chapter companion notes

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See Adèle Varens in Chapter XI