Wuthering Heights
Introduction
Wuthering Heights is a novel written by Emily Bronte in 1847 that is widely considered a literary masterpiece. However, it has a reputation for being convoluted and downright depressing. Let’s explore the hilarity in this classic novel.
Plot Summary
The story follows the tumultuous relationship of Heathcliff and Catherine, which spans across two generations. Heathcliff is an orphan taken in by the Earnshaws, and Catherine is the daughter of the family. The two grow up together and form a deep bond, but Catherine ends up marrying Edgar Linton, mainly for money, leaving Heathcliff heartbroken. Heathcliff then seeks revenge, causing a series of tragic events, ultimately leading to the deaths of several characters.
Characters
Heathcliff, the brooding and vengeful anti-hero, is undoubtedly the most iconic character in the novel. His love for Catherine, or rather, his obsession with her, consumes him entirely, leading him to seek revenge against anyone who gets in his way.
Catherine, on the other hand, is a classic example of a femme fatale. Her beauty and cunning charm make her irresistible to two men, Heathcliff and Edgar Linton, leading to the inevitable love triangle.
Other notable characters include Nelly, the long-winded housekeeper who acts as a narrator, and Isabella, Edgar’s sister, who naively falls for Heathcliff, only to regret it later.
Humor in Wuthering Heights
Despite the tragic events that occur throughout the novel, there is plenty of room for humor. Here are a few examples:
Nelly’s excessive use of foreshadowing and dramatic storytelling is so over-the-top that it’s almost comical. It’s as if she’s trying to outdo herself with every story she tells.
Heathcliff’s brooding and melodramatic behavior is so extra that it’s hard not to laugh at times. He’s like a parody of a gothic hero.
Catherine’s constant flip-flopping between Heathcliff and Edgar is almost farcical. It’s as if she can’t decide which man she wants, so she strings them both along.
Isabella’s sheer naïveté is hilarious at times. She falls for Heathcliff despite all the warning signs, only to end up regretting it later. It’s almost like she’s a caricature of a typical romantic heroine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wuthering Heights is a novel that is often considered bleak and depressing, but there is plenty of humor to be found in its pages. From Nelly’s dramatic storytelling to Heathcliff’s over-the-top behavior, there is no shortage of comedic moments in this literary masterpiece. So if you’re ever in need of a good laugh, don’t be afraid to pick up a copy of Wuthering Heights.