In this pivotal chapter of Jane Eyre, the narrative takes a dramatic turn when Jane Eyre uncovers a shocking truth about Mr. Rochester, the man she has grown to love deeply. As Jane prepares for her wedding to Rochester, she is filled with excitement and hope for the future. However, the atmosphere of anticipation is shattered during the ceremony when a mysterious figure interrupts the proceedings.

The interruption is made by Mr. Mason, who arrives at the church with a sense of urgency and distress. His presence raises immediate tension and confusion among the guests, and Jane's heart races as she senses something is amiss. Mr. Mason reveals that Rochester is already married, a fact that Jane had been completely unaware of. The revelation is not just a personal betrayal but also a societal scandal, and it shakes Jane to her core.

The narrative shifts to Rochester, who is left to confront the consequences of this revelation. He explains to Jane that his wife, Bertha Mason, whom he married years ago, is still alive. Bertha suffers from mental illness, which has led to her imprisonment in the attic of Thornfield Hall. Rochester describes the circumstances of their marriage, detailing how he was manipulated into the union by his father and the desire to fulfill family obligations. He expresses regret and a profound sense of entrapment, revealing that he has been trying to protect Jane from the truth of his past.

Jane is devastated by this information; it not only shatters her dreams of a future with Rochester but also forces her to confront the moral implications of their love. She grapples with feelings of anger and betrayal, questioning her worth and the authenticity of her relationship with Rochester. As she processes the enormity of the situation, Jane's sense of self-respect and independence surfaces. She realizes that she cannot compromise her own principles for love, no matter how deep her feelings for Rochester may be.

The chapter culminates in Jane's decision to leave Thornfield Hall. This marks a significant moment in her journey toward self-identity and autonomy. Jane's choice to walk away from Rochester, despite her love for him, highlights her commitment to her own values and dignity. She understands that, without being able to marry him in good conscience, she must prioritize her moral integrity over her emotional desires.

In summary, Chapter 15 of Jane Eyre serves as a critical turning point in the novel, revealing the complexities of love, duty, and personal integrity. The revelation of Rochester's hidden marriage complicates their relationship, forcing Jane to confront the reality of her situation and ultimately choose a path of independence over the allure of romance.