The book “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte was initially released in 1847. Being the first and only novel ever published by the famous poet, it gained popularity. Since then, the novel has been adapted many times into films, radio serials, television shows, plays, and musicals. The story is considered a classic in English Literature and emphasizes on an array of concepts such as jealousy, vengefulness, and passion. Reading the book, one might consider it to be an intense love story, but, in reality, it’s a story about revenge. “Wuthering Heights” is a chaotic novel. The complexity of the novel, however, is what makes it beautiful.
The most peculiar fact about this novel is that none of the characters are likable. From Heathcliff, to Catherine, to Isabella, all are portrayed in such a manner that focuses on their faults. This is what draws the readers in. Hoping to find something close to redemption in the characters.
The story mostly revolves around Heathcliff’s destructive love and passion for Catherine Earnshaw. Being adopted into the Earnshaw family, he was very adored by Catherine and her father. However, Catherine’s brother, Hindley, is jealous of the love and attention given to Heathcliff by his own family. Mr. Earnshaw sends Hindley away for college meanwhile, Catherine and Heathcliff get closer. After the death of Mr. Earnshaw, Hindley returns with his wife, as a new owner, and forces Heathcliff to live as their servant.
Soon enough, Heathcliff and Catherine take an interest in the Linton’s, at Thrushcross Grange. The Linton’s have two children, Edgar and Isabella. Catherine gets seduced by Edgar’s wealth and beauty even as she is still very much in love with Heathcliff. Heathcliff considers this as rejection and leaves only to come back as a wealthy man. In his absence, Catherine marries Edgar and moves to the Thrushcross Grange.
And so, starts the story of revenge. Heathcliff tricks the innocent and naïve Isabella into marrying him under the false pretence of caring for her and is quick to discard her cruelly once she serves her purpose. Catherinen then tragically dies during childbirth of her daughter. Heathcliff begs her spirit to remain on Earth—she may take whatever form she will, she may haunt him, drive him mad—just as long as she does not leave him alone. Shortly after the incident, Isabella flees to England giving birth to Heathcliff’s son.
Even this doesn’t put Heathcliff’s revenge to rest. His torment doesn’t end, but only increases with Catherine’s death. This makes him inflict pain and torment on the ones around him. Inflicting pain provides him some relief, which raises questions about whether people are inherently cruel by nature or are formed by childhood abuse, and to what extent should they be considered responsible or blamed for their cruelties. We see two generations suffer due to jealousy and petty revenge strategies. By the end of the novel, I found myself wanting Heathcliff to die for all of the evils he had committed against those around him.
The book “Wuthering Heights” is still regarded as an exceptional piece of literature. The way it explores jealousy, love, vengeance, passion, obsession, rivalry, greed, and cruelty in the rawest form possible is downright mesmerizing. It's admirable how the strong allure of darkness is in the characters of the book. The cruelty portrayed by almost each of the characters is extremely appalling. But I suppose that is what makes this book a masterpiece, despite the appalling nature it has a way of leaving the readers impressed.
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