THEMES

Major Theme

The major theme of the novel is love, especially that of Catherine and Heathcliff. It is the product of their rebellion against Hindley and Joseph and the natural result of their compatibility. Their love is realized only after death, but carried on symbolically by young Cathy and Hareton.

Minor Themes

Heathcliff's revenge forms a minor theme of the novel. He works out a plan of vengeance on both Hindley and Edgar. However, the spirit of Catherine prevents him from bringing his plan to its conclusion.

The supernatural is another minor theme of the novel. Heathcliff, Cathy, Nelly, and Lockwood are all subject to supernatural visions.

MOOD

The overall mood of Wuthering Heights is best described as somber and tragic. The author says the plot is like a storm. On the last page of the novel, the reader sees the phantoms of Heathcliff and the elder Cathy restlessly walking the Heights in rain and thunder. However, there is a semblance of calm in Brontë's presentation of the second-generation's story. It appears that the author is trying to resolve the basic stormy conflict of the novel through the love of Cathy and Hareton. In contrast to the restless Heathcliff and Cathy walking in the storm, Hareton and Cathy are seen on the moors, peaceful and in love. They decide to leave Wuthering Heights, abandoning it to the still restless spirits of Heathcliff and his Catherine.

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