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Analysis of Wuthering Heights Themes

Apr 24, 2025

Wuthering Heights: Full Book Analysis

Major Conflict

  • Central Theme: Heathcliff's passion for Catherine Earnshaw and the societal barriers due to class differences.
  • Catherine's View: Despite her deep love for Heathcliff, she cannot marry him due to social class constraints.
  • Heathcliff's Obsession: His inability to be with Catherine leads to his obsession with power and revenge, aiming to control Wuthering Heights and dominate the Earnshaw lineage.

Plot Overview

  • Inciting Incident: Heathcliff's adoption by Mr. Earnshaw, leading to mixed acceptance within the family.
  • Rising Tension: Conflict with Hindley Earnshaw, who becomes vengeful after his wife's death.
  • Marriages: Catherine marries Edgar Linton and Heathcliff marries Isabella, further complicating relationships.
  • Climax: Catherine's death following a violent argument with Heathcliff and Edgar.
  • Resolution of Major Conflict: Heathcliff's longing for Catherine persists beyond her death, leading to his ultimate demise and a mystical union with her.

Heathcliff's Revenge

  • Target: Ensures Hareton Earnshaw remains uneducated, preventing him from inheriting Wuthering Heights.
  • Marriage Manipulation: Plots marriage between his son and Cathy Linton to secure control over Thrushcross Grange.
  • Final Climax: Heathcliff's mysterious death, marking the end of his revenge-driven life.

Themes and Motifs

  • Class Struggle: A recurring theme, influencing characters' decisions and relationships.
  • Revenge: Heathcliff's primary driver, shaping his actions throughout the narrative.
  • Love and Obsession: The destructive nature of Heathcliff's love for Catherine.

Conclusion

  • Heathcliff's Obsession: His life and actions are defined by an unyielding love and desire for revenge.
  • Final Resolution: Death allows him a form of unity with Catherine that was impossible in life.