Wuthering Heights- Conflict

Question #4

The conflict in Wuthering Heights is brought about by the actions of one man, Heathcliff. Heathcliff suffers injustice as a child, consequently, when he grows, he is full of bitterness and hatred. The only ounce of love left in Heathcliff’s soul is his almost unhealthy passion for his childhood playmate, Catherine. Incidentally, the love that Heathcliff feels for Catherine provides fuel for his vengeful attitude, making the conflict between himself and the Linton family even greater. Little is gained from the conflict until the end of the book, when Heathcliff and Catherine are truly united in their death.

With hatred and lust for revenge spurring him on, Heathcliff ruins the lives of Isabella Linton, Linton Heathcliff, and Cathy Linton. Every action he takes is a sad attempt to ruin the lives of those around him and upset Catherine’s new husband. Isabella even says, “He has married me on purpose to obtain power over [Edgar]” (page 129) Heathcliff’s actions demonstrate the corruptibility of human life, especially when relating to traumatic events such as a drunken father or a married love. Heathcliff feels that in destroying the lives of others, he has made life fair for everyone. However, he is unable to look past his own selfish desires to see that the conflict that he has created is tearing the lives of others.

Brontë, Emily. Wuthering Heights. New York: Random House, 1943. Print.