Ways of Seeing It is a love story of immense emotional and imaginative force. Catherine and Heathcliff' are united in death. It is a powerful evocation of place - the moors. It is an exploration of two contrasting worlds and moral orders, represented by Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights. It is a tale of revenge, which knows no bounds. Above all it is an original novel, both in theme, style and structure. Characters Heathcliff Kindred spirit to Catherine Passionate Bullied and degraded by Hindley Brutal, cruel and sadistic Rejects conventional Christian morality; often described in diabolical terms Catherine Passionate, strong-willed At home on the moors Believes in union with Heathcliff after death Self-centred Betrays her love for Heathcliff by marrying Edgar Cruel Extreme, hysterical Nelly Dean Loyal to her employers and acts in their best interests Warm, approachable, confidante Lively storyteller Represents the common sense viewpoint and normal standards of behaviour Self-righteous, lecturing others on their responsibilities Critical of others Decided in her views but can be swayed Edgar Linton Gentle and loving husband and father Civilised Loyal to Catherine's memory; observes annual ritual of visiting her grave Over-protective of his daughter Weak Hindley Capable of affection in relationship with Frances Jealous of Heathcliff and determined to gain vengeance Violent and cruel in treatment of Heathcliff Lacks self-discipline Cathy Strong-willed like her mother but affectionate, loving and loyal like her father Spirited Determined, with a strong survival instinct Sensitive to those she cares for Can be devious in getting her own way Hareton Embodies best qualities of his parents Displays ancient Earnshaw character - strong, tough, resilient, spirited, proud Sensitive, feels deeply, capable of strong attachments Boorish, uncivilised, and violent Linton Heathcliff In need of affection Combines Isabella's weakness and Heathcliff's cruelty Timid Unable to sympathise with anyone else; self-pitying Manipulative, dishonest, and deceptive Lockwood Educated, civilised, representative of outside world Keen observer Sensitive to mood of people and place Vain, self-conscious Out of place in his surroundings Tends to jump to conclusions Major Areas of Study Thrushcross Grange v. Wuthering Heights Isolation Imprisonment Heaven and Hell Love and Marriage Revenge Books Sample Questions Comment on the significance of books in the novel. How true do you find Charlotte Bronte's description of Nelly Dean as a "specimen of true benevolence and homely fidelity"? Using Chapter 15 as a starting point, consider the nature of the relationship between Catherine and Heathcliff. How far and in what ways does Chapter 31 both reflect the central issues and contribute to the development of the novel? What do you find interesting about the structure of the novel? Show how Emily Bronte is able to convey atmosphere successfully.