Wuthering Heights revolves around the story of Heathcliff. One example of how the novel revolves around Heathcliff is when Lockwood describes Heathcliff’s appearance in Chapter One of Wuthering Heights. Lockwood thinks, “But Mr. Heathcliff forms a singular contrast to his abode and style of living. He is a dark-skinned gypsy in aspect, in dress and manners a gentleman, that is, as much a gentleman as many a country squire” (Brontë 3). The passage illustrates the mysterious figure of Heathcliff, his character and motivations. Heathcliff’s appearance exposes his unclear racial background and his attempt to elevate himself socially.
Another example of how the novel revolves around Heathcliff is when Nelly tells the story of Heathcliff coming into the Earnshaw family in Chapter Four of Wuthering Heights. Mr. Earnshaw, the former master of Wuthering Heights, returned from a business trip to Liverpool with Heathcliff, an orphan boy he had found on the street. Earnshaw’s daughter, Catherine, liked her foster brother almost immediately, but Earnshaw’s son Hindley hated him. Nelly’s story starts with his introduction into the Earnshaw family, his vengeful machinations drive the entire plot, and his death ends the book.
