The Professor
by Charlotte Brontë
The Professor was Charlotte Brontë's first novel, written before Jane Eyre but rejected by publishers until after her death. The book tells the story of a young man named William Crimsworth, from his formative years to his appointment as a teacher at an all-girls school. The story is based upon Brontë’s experiences in school.
Source: Brontë, C. (1857). The Professor. London: Smith Elder and Co.
- Preface
- The preface to the novel.
- Chapter 1: Introductory
- The narrator introduces himself through a letter written to an old schoolmate. The letter tells of his decision to become a tradesman, as well as of meeting his brother and his brother's wife.
- Chapter 2
- William finds out what his responsibilities will be at this new trade. He also learns the boundaries of the relationship his brother is willing to have.
- Chapter 3
- William manages to get by on his small salary and some savings. His brother continues to treat him coldly, even when he attends a party at his home. William speaks with Mr. Hunsden.
- Chapter 4
- William considers his work as a tradesman, and is confronted by Mr. Hunsden.
- Chapter 5
- Edward confronts William.
- Chapter 6
- William and Mr. Hunsden meet again. They discuss what has happened and William's plans for the future.
- Chapter 7
- William travels to Belgium, where he discovers a new line of employment.
- Chapter 8
- William discusses Pelet, his mother, and a strange meeting with two women.
- Chapter 9
- William takes steps to secure his additional employment by meeting with Mademoiselle Reuter.
- Chapter 10
- William looks forward to his first day at the girls' school. He again meets with M. Reuter.
- Chapter 11
- William and M. Pelet discuss M. Reuter and the ladies of her school.
- Chapter 12
- A discussion of the various females he comes in contact with at the school. William overhears an important conversation.
- Chapter 13
- William reveals to M. Reuter that he overheard her conversation. The class has a new student, but the professor is unkind.
- Chapter 14
- William manages to get by on his small salary and some savings. His brother continues to treat him coldly, even when he attends a party at his home. William speaks with Mr. Hunsden.
- Chapter 15
- William learns more of his student, Mdlle. Henri, and decides his opinion of Mdlle. Reuter has changed.
- Chapter 16
- William finds that Mdlle. Henri possesses some talent, and he takes the time to tell her so, albeit in his own way.
- Chapter 17
- William learns more of Mdlle. Herni's past and her plans for the future.
- Chapter 18
- William's connection with his pupil grows, but she suddenly disappears. He questions Mdlle. Reuter about Mdlle. Henri.
- Chapter 19
- William seeks out his missing pupil, deciding that she is the woman destined to be his wife.
- Chapter 20
- William tries to find a way to earn a living sufficient for beginning a new life, but finds there are unexpected obstacles.
- Chapter 21
- Two letters arrive. William tries to work out a plan for employment.
- Chapter 22
- The marriage of Pelet and Reuter takes place. Hunsden pays a visit, and bestows a gift. The future begins to brighten for William.
- Chapter 23
- William decides to reveal his feelings to Frances.
- Chapter 24
- Hunsden returns and meets with William and Frances.
- Chapter 25
- William and Frances continue their married life together, with continued contact with Hunsden.