Enjoying huge popularity since first publication, "Jane Eyre" (1847) owes much of its success to its emotional power. Jane, a penniless orphan, is engaged as governess by the mysterious Mr Rochester. Her integrity and independence are tested as their love grows, and Rochester's past is revealed. Jane Eyre (1847) has enjoyed huge popularity since first publication, and its success owes much to its exceptional emotional power. Jane Eyre, a penniless orphan, is engaged as governess at Thornfield Hall by the mysterious Mr Rochester. Her integrity and independence are tested to the limit as their love for each other grows, and the secrets of Mr Rochester's past are revealed.