Question on: SS2 Literature - Non-African Prose-Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

Role of revenge in "Wuthering Heights"

Revenge is a central theme in Emily Brontë's novel "Wuthering Heights." It is the driving force behind many of the characters' actions, and it leads to a cycle of violence and destruction. The novel begins with Heathcliff, a young orphan, being mistreated by his new guardian, Hindley Earnshaw. Heathcliff vows revenge against Hindley and his sister, Catherine, who he loves. After Catherine marries Edgar Linton, a wealthy neighbor, Heathcliff spends the next two decades planning his revenge. Heathcliff's revenge is systematic and ruthless. He schemes to gain control of Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange, the two houses that Catherine loved. He also sets out to destroy the happiness of Hindley and Edgar's families. Heathcliff's revenge is ultimately successful, but it brings him no lasting satisfaction. He is left alone and empty, consumed by his hatred.

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