Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
Fire in the novel is associated with rebellion, both political and emotional. In Part I, ex-slaves set fire to Coulibri as an expression of their discontent, partly with Mr. Mason's plan to import slaves from the East Indies. Antoinette's dream of setting fire to Thornfield Hall in Part III suggests a parallel between the ex-slaves' protest and her own protest against Rochester and the patriarchal system he embodies.