In Wuthering Heights, all of the Earnshaw family affects Heathcliff in a negative manner. The Earnshaw's nurturing of Heathcliff gives him the malevolent, evil characteristics that he carries with him his whole life. Through this example, Emily Bronte supports the tabula rosa theory, in which a person's attribute develop not due to their nature, but from their experiences. Mr. Earnshaw, Hindley Earnshaw, and Catherine Earnshaw perform as the cornerstones to Heathcliff's background. First of all, Mr. Earnshaw makes Heathcliff the favorite son, implanting a sense that the boy belongs in the family. Secondly, Hindley Earnshaw shapes Heathcliff through his hatred of him. Finally, Catherine influences Heathcliff through her selfish neglect of his needs. This trio demonstrates the great twisting of emotions throughout Wuthering Heights. Also, Wade Thompson illustrates how callous feelings are the main characteristics associated with Wuthering Heights by saying, "Normal emotions are almost completely inverted: hate replaces love, cruelty replaces kindness, and survival depends on one's ability to be tough, brutal and rebellious." (Thompson 101). To survive this harsh setting, Heathcliff must embrace these emotions.
             Mr. Earnshaw impinges on Heathcliff in a very profound manner during the boy's childhood. This concern for the child benefits Heathcliff as he feels that he somewhat belongs to the family. Mr. Earnshaw begins to influence Heathcliff at a very young age. While on a trip to Liverpool, Mr. Earnshaw discovers Heathcliff. He takes the gypsy home thinking that the boy would surely die. After this episode, Mr. Earnshaw operates as Heathcliff's savior and sole benefactor. Everyone in the Earnshaw house wants the little ruffian gone. Mrs. Earnshaw even wants to
             abandon the child, "asking how he could fashion to bring that gipsy brat into the house when they had their own bairns to feed and f...