Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Assuming most of you scholars have read this classic, i would like to pose a question or two to the public concerning this novel. I personally read it a few weeks ago, before christmas actually, and now my AP English class is starting it. I personally didn't sit well with most of the characters, especially Heathcliff and Catherine, and was worried that i was suppose to really enjoy the book. But then we read some early reviews...
The early reviews of the book said mostly the same thing; that the story was strange and vulgar, disjointed and confusing, but there was hope in some that "Ellis Bell" would write a sequel, for it seemed "he" only needed more practice. The critics found the book to be a captivating read, and powerful, but went on to say that "the power was wasted".
I found myself agreeing with what these readers had said, since they were my own opinions after reading it on my own. So i'd like to ask:
What was your initial reaction to this book, at the beginning, and at the end?
If you were to write your own review of the book, what would you say essentially?
I realize that it may have been awhile since some of you have read this, but please try and remember or read a synopsis of the book to jog your memory-- I'm very curious to read modern reviews to see if ideas have changed over time, or if i'm just crazy.
Tags: bronte, emily, heights, review, wuthering
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Ken Egan on -
Hey, glad to "see" you again, Grace.
I haven't read WH in years, but I can tell you my first and persistent response: I love this novel.
It's a wild Gothic tale focused on a complex anti-hero (Heathcliff) and his passionate relationship with Catherine Earnshaw. The novel always struck me as more American than British because of the outlandish plotting, setting, and emotions. It's a downright weird novel, its style as untamed as its characters.
And yes, I'm a sucker for all the Shakespearen allusions--English majors never die, they just keep floating on the sea of cross-textural references.
Above all, WH was a blast to teach--love it or hate it, this novel provokes people.
I probably shouldn't admit this, but I much prefer WH to Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. . . . I'll leave it at that.
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Permalink Reply by Grace Hein on -
Thanks for the input, and its good to be back. :) I find it interesting that you prefer Wuthering heights to Jane Eyre. I'm exactly the opposite. :) I didn't find there to be much passion in heathcliff and Catherine's relationship… just vengeful aggression, which slightly annoyed and disturbed me. But that is very true that this novel provokes people. I couldn't put the book down-- I was so fascinated (and repulsed I suppose).
Needless to say its definitely not a heartwarming tale of love, since it explores the darker sides of desire.
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