The Origin and Significance of the Surname Eyre

Eyre is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "eare," meaning "wild boar" or "pig." The name was originally used to describe someone who kept pigs or was known for their fierce nature, similar to the wild boar. Over time, the spelling of the name evolved to Eyre, and it became a common surname in England and other English-speaking countries.

In literature, the name Eyre is perhaps best known as the surname of the protagonist of Charlotte Bronte's novel "Jane Eyre." The novel tells the story of Jane Eyre, a young woman who grows up in a series of orphanages and later becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall. The novel explores themes of love, class, gender, and identity, and it has become a classic of English literature.