What inspires a writer? What gives the mental picture for a writer? In 1845 Charlotte Bronte stayed in Hathersage. Two years later the novel Jane Eyre was published. It is believed that North Lees Hall was the inspiration for Thornfield Hall. It is known that Charlotte visited this two or three times while she was in Hathersage. North Lees Hall was built around 1410 by Robert Eyre.
This weekend marks the 200 anniversary of Charlotte Bronte's birth. In celebration North Lees Hall was open for a few hours Saturday and Sunday. A friend and I went this afternoon. We have walked in that area before and see it from a distance.
The house was smaller than I thought. I imagined a large grand house but that is not the case. It has been used as a holiday house for the past few years. There were just three bedrooms, a sitting room, dining room, and kitchen.
I think the steps might have been original. The circular staircase goes all the way up to the roof.
The view is amazing. I live in the most beautiful part of England.
Throughout the house there are bits of things referenced in Jane Eyre. Now I want to sit and read Jane Eyre again.
It was a fun afternoon and I am glad that we were able to go and visit the inside.
Beth
No comments:
Post a Comment