Everything appears to be contaminated with horror during the first chapter, this is even shown through the characters as Heathcliff's reactions and behaviour towards Lockwood is somewhat rude, this can be perceived by Lockwood’s first impressions of Heathcliff and the use of Brontë’s descriptive, violent language to describe Heathcliff’s character. This is done to develop the theme of violence throughout the start of this particular work of fiction.
“His reserve springs from an aversion to showy displays of feeling-to manifestations of mutual kindliness.” – Lockwood
The particular thesis of violence is even portrayed through the description of the scenery of Heathcliff’s house when Lockwood first enters. It is believed that Emily’s purpose of this is to intensify the inscrutability of the novel and to intensify the confusion of the reader.
“Above the chimney were sundry old villainous old guns” – Lockwood
As chapter two begins it can evidently be seen that the theme of violence spills over into the weather conditions, Brontë’s purpose here is to emphasise the horror elements of the novel. The weather conditions are symbolic here as it informs the reader that more violent events will occur later on in the chapter.
“The snow began to drive thickly.” – Lockwood
The discourtesy of the residents at Wuthering Heights can again be seen here in this chapter, as Lockwood receives an extremely rude reception when he arrives at Heathcliff’s home.
“She never opened her mouth. I stared- she stared also.” – Lockwood
It is assumed that Brontë’s principle is to not present too many clues about the characters at this point in the narrative, as it is her intention to keep the reader guessing and in the state of wonderment.
As the book is continued the reference to the weather is repeated to lay emphasis on the violence and lingering atmosphere of Wuthering Heights. As the weather conditions proceed to get worse it is considered that Emily’s reason for this was to prepare the reader for more sadistic events.
“A sorrowful sight I saw; dark night coming down prematurely” – Lockwood
Towards the ending of chapter two and the beginning of chapter three the theme of violence sets in as many examples are seen which are of a violent nature, especially towards Lockwood, as the dogs are ordered to kill Lockwood.
“ ‘ Hey, Gnasher! Hey, dog! Hey, Wolf, holld him, holld him!’ “ – Joesph
The names of the dogs also symbolise violence and it is beginning to seem that everything at Wuthering Heights is to some extent possessed by violence. It is believed that Emily’s point here is to portray that Wuthering Heights is unrelentedly sadistic. The authorical purpose at the end of this chapter is to keep the reader in a state of mystery.
As the novel is studied further it is perceived that the main topic in this chapter is violence and terror. Lockwood has stayed for the night in a hidden bed so Heathcliff cannot find him. He begins to read and explore the room. Three names are found on the window ledge, Brontë’s purpose here is to place bewilderment upon the reader at this point.
“ Catherine Earnshaw, here and there then varied to Catherine Heathcliff, and then again to Catherine Linton” – Lockwood
Throughout the entire chapter there is much reference to hell and violence. Brontë’s purpose here is to create an atmosphere ready for more dramatic events.
“We each sought a separate nook to await his advent” –Lockwood
As the night progresses in the novel Lockwood begins to have a nightmare, this is where the violence and paranormal events really commence. This again relates back to the genre of gothic horror as a ghost appears, however this is not in Lockwood’s dream, this is real. Emily’s purpose here is to provide the reader with more clues, as the spectre is named Catherine Linton. She also places more emphasis upon the theme of violence and terror as the supernatural element sets in.
“ My fingers closed on the little fingers of a little, ice cold hand!” – Lockwood
In conclusion, Emily Brontë’s hidden purposes within the text play an immensely important part to this novel as it provides the reader with a deeper knowledge and understanding of the written context and hidden meanings behind certain words and specific themes.
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