A Theme Of Good And Evil In “Wuthering Heights” By Emily Brontë

Although they are two different deeds, both good and bad have an almost constant connection. The society must appreciate each other in order to be successful. Most people don’t notice the good and appreciate it until they’ve experienced the evil. Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights is a perfect example of this. It shows the stark contrast between good or evil in her novel. She contrasts Thrushcross Grange with Wuthering Heights in her book. Thrushcross is described as a welcoming and friendly place in the book. Its depiction is of calm and fine climate, which symbolizes the brighter and more compassionate side of humanity.

Wuthering Height, however, depicts evil. This can be seen in its unique characteristics, like being stormy and dark. This place is called a notable regional adjective. It is used to describe the atmosphere and commotion that its location is exposed in wild weather. Bronte further states that “…pure is a region adjective, describing the need for constant ventilation. One might guess the power to blow over the edge…by gaunt, thorny limbs, stretching one way, almost as if seeking alms. This description further enhances the notion that Wuthering Heights is evil. It showcases both the wild and the petty nature of nature. It is important to the novel because of its symbolic meaning and the contribution it makes. It helps to better understand the turmoil experienced by the characters as they battle with their internal moral and wicked forces. Emily Bronte is a model of the good and constructive behavior of cultured, normal human behavior. Heathcliff contrasts with Catherine to show the rebellious and wicked side of humanity. Thrushcross Grange has a Catherine similarity. Thrushcross Grange is known for her peacefulness and sparkle. She was also kind to everyone she met. One example is when she “…took each child’s hand and brought them to her house. The fire lit up their faces …”.. Simple acts like these can show compassion and love. Catherine is clearly a symbol of goodness and morality throughout the novel.

Hood claims that Heathcliff represents Wuthering Heights. They are both wild and rugged, dark and ferocious. His dark hair and eyes are what make him evil. Heathcliff himself wants to lighten his complexion and become a better person. To emphasize the terrible evil Heathcliff harbours, a number of people used terms like ‘the Devil’ and hell’ to describe Heathcliff. The author also used the words ‘diabolical ‘villain’ throughout his book. In most conversations, Heathcliff used abusive words to refer people. He said, “Damnable witch!” when he told Hareton to get Catherine out of his room. Dare ye to pretend to rouse me against him? Take her with you! Do you hear? Flee her to the kitchen! Ellen Dean, I will kill her if she comes back in my sight! These words portray Heathcliff’s evil that leads him to even think about killing someone.

Gothic books include supernatural situations to help readers escape the mundane and let their imaginations run wild. Ghosts in Wuthering Heights are used to present the supernatural. This not only scares readers but also affects the story flow. The novel’s ending is impacted by Catherine’s ghost’s appearance. The ghost appeared in a dream to Mr. Lockwood at the beginning. This is closely tied to the end because it highlights Heathcliff’s desire to reunite his beloved Catherine. The novel ends with Catherine meeting her ghost.

The final events of the story are determined by Catherine’s ghost. Heathcliff’s passion for Catherine, who was the catalyst of the novel, becomes meaningless. Heathcliff also follows Catherine to her grave shortly after their reunion. The story ends with Heathcliff’s death. The remaining characters can continue their lives without the terror caused by Heathcliff’s ferocious deeds. The story’s essence is therefore represented by Lockwood’s first supernatural act, which revealed Catherine’s ghost. Heathcliff’s death, which was caused by Catherine’s ghost’s appearances, is a clear indication of his finality – his retaliation against his unsatisfied lovers – and the conclusion to the novel. Although the ghost’s appearance is frowned on in most societies, this supernatural event shows that there were some positive outcomes.

Wuthering Heights author carefully and successfully contrasted both good and bad aspects of her book. This is the reason Thrushcross Grange was depicted as peaceful and tranquil, while Wuthering Heights has stormy and wild weather. Heathcliff and Catherine also help to illustrate the goodness and the evil of humanity. Catherine is positive as you can see from her calm nature, kindnesses and actions against Heathcliff, the evil man who terrorizes the community through his violent and abusive pursuit of revenge. The novel includes supernatural events. Catherine is first seen as a ghost and then Mr. Lockwood. Finally, Heathcliff appears as Catherine. Although ghosts are seen as unnatural and wrong, Catherine’s ghost has a positive impact on the story’s ending. Heathcliff meets his beloved and follows her to death, allowing the rest to carry on their daily activities without the violence and terror Heathcliff brought.

Author

  • holliedavidson

    Hollie Davidson is a 34-year-old educational blogger and student. She has a passion for writing, and loves to share her knowledge and insights with her readers. Hollie is also an advocate for effective learning, and is committed to helping others achieve their goals.