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Cover of The Professor

The Professor

Written by Charlotte Brontë

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BritishLove storiesTriangles (Interpersonal relations)Brussels (Belgium)Women teachersBelgium

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About this book

"The Professor" by Charlotte Brontë is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book explores the life and struggles of its main character, William Crimsworth, as he navigates societal expectations, family ties, and the pursuit of his own aspirations in a world of commerce and industrialization. The opening of "The Professor" introduces us to William Crimsworth, who reflects on his past and the circumstances that led him to reject the offers of his aristocratic uncles, choosing instead a life in trade. His dissatisfaction with his life is palpable as he recounts his experiences at Eton and his decision to work as a clerk for his brother Edward, a mill-owner. Through a letter to an old schoolmate, William reveals his disdain for the expectations placed upon him by his family and society. He is determined to make his own way, yet he is conflicted between his ambitions and the harsh realities of his current life. As the story unfolds, we see him grappling with his identity and the desire for a more fulfilling existence amidst the industrial backdrop of his time.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Professor, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • introspective
  • realistic
  • social commentary

Charlotte Brontë's "The Professor" is a poignant exploration of an intelligent but socially awkward young man, William Crimsworth, who rejects inherited wealth and seeks to forge his own path in the world. Facing betrayal and disillusionment in England, he moves to Brussels, where he finds employment as a teacher in a girls' school. Through his keen observations and internal struggles, William navigates the complexities of European society, professional challenges, and the pursuit of genuine connection. The novel ultimately chronicles his journey towards self-discovery, finding love with a quiet, independent woman, Frances Henri, and establishing a life rooted in integrity and mutual respect, rather than superficial status.

“I determined to make my way, to be a somebody, to have a good place and a good name, or to die in the attempt.”

Key themes

Independence and Self-Reliance
Central to the novel, this theme is explored through William's rejection of his family's patronage and his determination to make his own way. Both William and Frances strive for financial and personal autonomy, valuing the dignity of honest work over inherited wealth or social status. Their journey emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from self-earned success and integrity.
Social Class and Ambition
The novel critiques the rigid class structures of 19th-century England and Belgium, and the societal pressures associated with them. William, despite his gentlemanly origins, chooses a life of work over idleness, often finding himself at odds with those who value superficial status or wealth. The ambition of characters like Pelet and Reuter is contrasted with the quieter, more principled ambitions of William and Frances.
Integrity vs. Hypocrisy
William Crimsworth is a man of unwavering integrity, often to his own detriment. He consistently exposes and despises the hypocrisy, vanity, and deceit he encounters in others, particularly in the educational establishments of Brussels. The novel champions honesty, sincerity, and moral fortitude as essential human qualities, contrasting them sharply with the self-serving and manipulative behaviors of characters like Pelet and Reuter.

Worth discussing

How does William's rejection of his aristocratic uncles' offers set the tone for his character and ambitions throughout the novel?

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