Wuthering Heights Group Questions
1. Give students hand out with author bio and historical context. Then students
answer the following questions in their group and report back:
a) Read the Author bio and historical context together
b) Identify key events and accomplishments in the author’s life
c) What were the major influences on the author’s perspective on life and
their literary style?
d) Highlight main points in each category in the Historical context section.
e) Identify examples that reflect the historical context in what you have read
so far.
2. Questions chapters 1-7
a) Contrast Lockwood with Heathcliff. What does this reveal about
Heathcliff?
b) Why is it ironic that Heath cliff’s former wife is referred to as a
“ministering angel”?
c) Describe Cathy’s temperament.
d) Where do Heathcliff’s misanthropic tendencies stem?
e) Describe and explain the significance of the supernatural elements.
f) Relate Heathcliff’s hostility to his childhood. Why doesn’t he benefit from
the positive influences around him now?
g) Compare and contrast Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange.
h) Do you feel any sympathy for Hindley? Why?
i) Describe the theme of revenge so far.
3. Questions chapters 8-12
a) Describe Edgar’s reaction to Catherine. Why does Nelly say he is
doomed? How does Bronte introduce the theme of the “divided self”?
(natural instincts vs. social values).
b) Describe Catherine’s love for Heathcliff in Chapter 9. Analyze why she
says “I am Heathcliff”. So then, why does she choose to marry Edgar? Do
you sympathize with her? Why or why not?
c) Why does Heathcliff consider marrying Isabella in chapter 10. Describe
the issue of revenge.
d) Is Catherine’s rage manipulative or a sign of insanity?
e) What does Heathcliff’s treatment of Isabella’s dog reveal or foreshadow?