1. Consider whether 'Wuthering Heights' deteriorates as a novel after the death of Catherine. Answer This isn't a perfect answer, nor a particularly full one - take it as an approach to adopt which offers some ideas. Introduction: Responds directly to the question. Shows knowledge of the ways the second section of the novel might be considered. Opens up the argument which will be developed without coming to any conclusion. The shifting emphasis from the older Catherine and Heathcliff's relationship to the final union of the younger Cathy and Hareton has been criticised. Some might call it an anticlimax, whilst others might maintain it symbolises the perfect union of two worlds' Christian conventionality with strong passion. The first section - character, theme, style: Introduce the main features of the first half of the novel Explore the nature of the relationship which dominates the first section of the novel Provide a link with second half It is the stormy northern climate, the violence and intensity of Catherine and Heathcliff's passion and the bitter words spoken at the 'deathbed scene' that profoundly affect the reader. Their relationship has joined those of the legendary literary lovers.... Heathcliff, the archetypal Byronic hero dominates the novel.... The second section in comparison: Introduce the second thread of your argument, harking back to the question, showing an ability to analyse. Explain what this is, developing your argument All other characters pale into insignificance beside the tragic hero and heroine... The relationship reaches its climax with Catherine's death, yet this is also the start of much of the action which is played out in the second half of the novel Assess the relative strengths of each: Introduce the final strand which makes the links between both sections Show how both sections connect and are mutually dependent.... ... on two fronts How can the novel fail to deteriorate when its focus shifts from the wild surroundings of Wuthering Heights and the moors and the emotional intensity of the older lovers to the fussy Thrushcross Grange, the precocious child Cathy, the detestable Linton and the boorish Hareton? Death can be the only solution for Catherine and Heathcliff. They look to life after death to achieve their union. There is a strong supernatural element throughout the novel and the sighting of their ghosts in the second half of the novel is entirely satisfactory.... The situation is resolved perfectly on two fronts. Cathy regrets her snobbish treatment of her cousin and is rewarded with a life of love and purpose, whilst Hareton takes up his rightful position as head of the ancient Earnshaw family... Conclusion: Look again at the introduction and close the argument you opened. Throw in a little extra to spark things up a little The second part of the novel lacks the passion of the first, but this kind of intensity ought not to be sustained throughout to be effective. We need a contrast for it and this is provided by the younger generation. Heathcliff's revenge plan, which gives the second part of the novel much of its pace and direction, is ultimately a failure; yet he achieves a perfect union with Catherine. Moreover Cathy and Hareton's love unites the best qualities of both households... It is the perfect conclusion to the tale.