Wuthering Heights Pre-Reading Assignment
This novel falls under the heading of “19th Century Novel” and has difficult language and syntax, a very
involved story line, and gothic features. Because of that, it behooves you to have a preview of the elements,
characters and themes. We will use, gasp!, SparkNotes.com
Google>Wuthering Heights> SparkNotes.com
I. Context:
1. What was the response of Victorian readers? Why?
2. In 2-3 sentences, describe Emily Bronte’s life.
3. Describe the gothic tradition of the late 18th C / early 19th C.
II. Analysis of Major Characters:
4. The story centers around what character?
5. Heathcliff is a Byronic Hero. Look up “Byronic Hero” on wikipedia.com and describe the basic
characteristics of one.
6. In 2-3 sentences, summarize Heathcliff
7. Explain what Heathcliff’s character shows about upper/middle class views of the working class.
8. Describe Catherine in 1-2 sentences.
9. What does Isabella represent?
10. Describe Edgar in 1-2 sentences.
III. Themes, Motifs, Symbols:
11. Explain the difference between Catherine/Heathcliff’s love and young Catherine/Hareton’s love.
12. Describe the social class of the Lintons.
13. Describe the social class of the Earnshaws.
14. List 3 doubles in the novel.
15. List 3 repetitions used in the novel.
16. Nature is represented by who? Because they behave what way?
17. Culture is represented by who? Because they behave what way?
IV. Key Facts:
18. Point of View: Nelly is not a reliable narrator. Why?
19. The tone for the first ½ of the novel is what? And for the 2nd ½ of the novel?
20. Major Conflicts: What is Heathcliff’s major conflict? What is Catherine’s?