An Appraisal of Catherine and Heathcliff’s Love Relationship

Abstract

Literary criticism on Wuthering Heights (1847) has long been notable for its references to Catherine and Heathcliff as supreme fictional lovers. Yet a careful reading of the novel would suggest that this standpoint is something of an exaggeration. Whereas there can be no doubt whatsoever that Heathcliff remains consistently in love with Catherine from his boyhood until his death, it is not quite so certain that Catherine's love for Heathcliff is of a similarly amorous nature. Indeed, there is much to suggest that her love for Heathcliff is essentially the same as the affection she felt for him during their childhood. In this connection, it is noteworthy that amid her relationship with Heathcliff after his return from abroad, and despite those occasions when she gives the impression of being more on Heathcliff's side than on her husband's, Catherine nonetheless remains dependent on Edgar for her security and well-being.