Jane Eyre response; does this make sense??

Question

doing a paper. had to respond to a chosen quote, and explain what significance they have for you, etc. etc. does this make sense? is it good? im not really sure. i didn't interpret the book too well.

1. “’Well then, with Miss Temple are you good?’

‘Yes, in a passive way; I make no effort; I follow as inclination guides me. There is no merit in such goodness’” (Bronte 59).

This quote is spoken from Jane’s old friend from Lowood, Helen Burns. She explains to us that she doesn’t speak out and show her true character to anyone at school; she “goes with the flow”. One could say that she doesn’t put any extra effort into being the best person she can be. I believe that Helen is right when she says that she shouldn’t get credit for only trying as much as she needs to. Yes, she may complete only what’s required of her, but if everyone did that, there would be no extraordinary accomplishments done and nothing to thrive for.

also what else should i add? thanks

Answer 1

I think your answer is pretty good, but one thing that you might want to note is that Helen likes Miss Temple (shortly before this exchange it says that Helen's face softens at the mention of Miss Temple's name).  She is good with Miss Temple because it's easy to be good with her.  But you're right in saying she doesn't put in extra effort--which is why she was flogged earlier in the day by Miss Scatcherd.