Synopsis
At the center of this novel is the passionate love between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, recounted with such emotional intensity that a plain tale of the Yorkshire moors acquires the depth and simplicity of ancient tragedy. A heartrending story of class divides and revenge, Wuthering Heights is a classic tale of the power of love, and the devastation of love lost.
Thoughts
I chose Wuthering Heights as my classic read this month for two reasons. First, I had not read the story since high school, so my recollection consisted of one ghostly scene and arguably one of the most romantic quotes from literature. I also read it because I have seven beautiful editions of the novel gracing my bookshelves. Have I mentioned that I am a bit of a classic book hoarder?
It is always interesting to reread a book after a few (or several) years have passed, experiencing it with more of life’s wisdom. And this book was no exception. After completing the book this time, I now think of Wuthering Heights as more of a gothic novel viewed through a romance filter, as opposed to a romance book.
I had somehow forgotten about the amount of despair, abuse, obsession, isolation, and death contained within this great work. Indeed, it is not a happy book! I think that is in part what makes Wuthering Heights a masterpiece. Whether you like the feelings you experience or not, the author captures the emotions brilliantly. I am glad I took the time to reread this book.
Quote
“He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
Question
Have you read Wuthering Heights?