Comment on the way a sense of place is created in the first chapter of "Wuthering Heights"
Comment on the way a sense of place is created in this passage. In your answer, focus on:
- Bronte’s narrative voice
- Bronte’s language choices
Mr. Heathcliff, a surly, ‘dark-skinned’ man living in a manor called Wuthering Heights - “wuthering” being a local adjective used to describe the fierce and wild winds that blow during storms on the moors. The use of the noun “dwelling” is used rather than house – why? This could be because maybe Mr Heathcliff doesn’t like living here or maybe it’s a farm house.
The passage from the first chapter is spoken in the voice of Lockwood, represents the mysterious figure of Heathcliff, using first of many attempts in the book to explain of Heathcliff; his character and motivations. During the first chapter, a reader discusses the question of his social position—is he a gentleman or a gypsy? This causes particular confusion. Further on the passage, it says Mr Heathcliff “love and hate equally” implying that he treats everyone equally even though he has a higher status.