The aim of this thesis is to explore the emotional impact that three childhood environments have on the formation of Jane’s identity. These spatial boundaries are how Jane develops an understanding of herself and the ‘other’ while discovering the answer to ‘Who am I?’. My analysis focuses on three spaces. First, I explore her cognitive development in the domestic sphere of Gateshead Hall. Second, I analyze Jane’s moment of introspection while confined in the Red Room and how it alters her self-image. Third, I discuss the impact of religion, her relationship with God, and the ways it prepares her for adulthood. Through this ordeal, Jane must learn the rules, explore society’s purpose for her, and break those rules to become her true self. However, during this development, Jane is perceived as a monster for being incapable of conforming to society’s norms. I argue that the trauma Jane experienced as an orphan did not transform her into a monster, instead gave her power through autonomy by not complying with society’s demands. Moreover, her trauma grants her the ability to cross boundaries and survive in restricted environments rather than go ‘mad’. Since Jane creates a different path for the ‘New Woman’ ideology, her narrative becomes an allegory of Victorian culture. By examining her life at Gateshead Hall, the Red Room, and Lowood Institute, I can discover specific instances in Jane’s childhood to draw direct connections to the ways in which her trauma shaped her and saved her from becoming monstrous.