Bronte's Idea of Suburbia
In the classic Wuthering Heights, written by Emily Bronte, the characters reflect passion and hate in the two primary settings of the plot. The tumultuous Earnshaws and their extended family inhabit the stormy household of Wuthering Heights. As opposed to the latter, the Lintons and their family occupy the rational Thrushcross Grange. Through obvious symbolism in the settings of Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange, Bronte effectively contrasts the characters' personalities and lives. The geographical setting of Wuthering Heights sets the stage for conflict. Wuthering, the title of the estate, describes "the atmospheric tumult to which its station is exposed in stormy weather"(2). Mr. Lockwood, one of two narrators, comments on the "pure, bracing ventilation they must have up there at all times . . . the power of the north wind blowing over the edge" (2). After gathering his first impressions of the house, Mr. Lockwood observes "the architect [of Wuthering Heights] had foresight to build it strong; the narrow windows are deeply set in the wall, and the corners defended with large jutting stones" (2). The structure of the house i
The gloom of Wuthering Heights suggests unhappiness and pain. The inhabitants of Thrushcross Grange, however, prove a loyal opposition to those of Wuthering Heights in manner and appearance. There was a violent wind, as well as thunder, and either on or the other split a tree off at the corner of the building" (77). The contrast resembled what you see in exchanging a bleak, hilly, coal country for a beautiful, fertile valley; and [Edgar's] voice and greeting were as opposite as his aspect. Consequently, the two different worlds the characters unsuccessfully try to blend never make a large enough impact to narrow the contrasts. Throughout Wuthering Heights, the author mentions the settings to emphasize the disparity between the two houses. In his flight a "storm came rattling over the Heights in full fury. He had a sweet, low manner of speaking"(63) that clearly enchanted Catherine, who drops Heathcliff for the classier Edgar. For instance, when he learns his love Catherine is marrying Edgar Linton of the elite Thrushcross Grange, he runs away from the Heights. Heathcliff's resemblance to a gypsy suggests mystery and darkness, perhaps like that of a storm. Young Heathcliff and Catherine peek at the elegant Thrushcross Grange, seeing "crimson-covered chairs and tables, and a pure white ceiling bordered by gold, a shower of glass drops hanging in silver chains from the centre" and "Edgar and his sister had it entirely to themselves"(42). Lockwood, whose departure was delayed by snow, quipping, " ' I wonder you should select the thick of a snow-storm to ramble about in'"(9) and scolds him for trying to find his own way to the Heights. The coming of the storm with Heathcliff's disappearance symbolizes his dark presence over Wuthering Heights. Only gone five weeks, young Catherine had undergone a major change. He discourages offering help to Mr.
Common topics in this essay:
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Acceptance Essays
