Wuthering Heights

Definition

Wuthering Heights is a novel written by Emily Brontë, published in 1847, that is often regarded as a quintessential work of Romantic literature. The story is set on the Yorkshire moors and revolves around the intense and tumultuous relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. This novel embodies key features of Romanticism, including an emphasis on individual passion, the supernatural, and nature as both a backdrop and a character within the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wuthering Heights was published under the pseudonym 'Ellis Bell' and initially received mixed reviews, with some praising its originality while others found it too dark.
2. The novel is notable for its non-linear narrative structure, which shifts between multiple perspectives and timelines.
3. Heathcliff's character embodies the Byronic hero archetype, demonstrating traits of brooding intensity and a deep connection to nature.
4. The setting of the Yorkshire moors plays a crucial role in establishing the novel's mood and reflects the characters' inner turmoil and passions.
5. Themes of revenge, love, and social class are intricately woven throughout the story, showcasing Brontë's exploration of human emotion and its consequences.

Review Questions

• How does Wuthering Heights exemplify the characteristics of Romanticism through its themes and characters?
  • Wuthering Heights exemplifies Romanticism through its intense exploration of human emotion, particularly love and revenge. The passionate relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw highlights the importance of individual feelings over societal expectations. Additionally, the novel's setting on the wild Yorkshire moors reflects the Romantic idealization of nature as a powerful force that mirrors the characters' emotional states, further emphasizing the connection between human experience and the natural world.
• Discuss how Heathcliff embodies the traits of a Byronic hero and how this influences his relationships with other characters in Wuthering Heights.
  • Heathcliff embodies the traits of a Byronic hero through his brooding demeanor, complex emotions, and rebellious nature. His troubled past fuels his intense passion for Catherine but also leads to destructive behaviors towards others. This complexity creates tension in his relationships, particularly with Catherine, as their love is marked by both profound connection and deep conflict. Heathcliff's character serves to illustrate the darker aspects of love and revenge within the narrative.
• Evaluate how Wuthering Heights uses Gothic elements to enhance its themes of love and revenge within the context of Romantic literature.
  • Wuthering Heights employs Gothic elements such as its isolated setting, supernatural occurrences, and dark themes to enhance its exploration of love and revenge. The moody atmosphere created by the moors contributes to a sense of foreboding that underscores the intensity of Heathcliff's feelings. Supernatural elements, like Catherine's ghostly appearance, serve to illustrate the enduring nature of love even beyond death. These Gothic aspects not only enrich the narrative but also align with Romantic literature’s focus on passion and emotional extremes.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and a deep appreciation for nature.

Byronic Hero: A type of anti-hero characterized by emotional depth, rebelliousness, and a troubled past, often exemplified by characters like Heathcliff.

Gothic Literature: A genre that combines horror, romance, and the supernatural, often featuring isolated settings, dark themes, and complex characters.