Wuthering Heights (Classic Lines version)

Unlike many, I was never forced into reading this book while I was in high school. I read it voluntarily after reading and enjoying Jane Eyre, supposing that the Bronte sisters would share a great deal of literary similarities. I quickly learned that the two sisters not only had different tales to tell, but entirely different outlooks and styles.

To me, Wuthering Heights was difficult to get into--and admittedly, just about over my head. I managed it by reading slowly and taking in only a few chapters per day. The plot was a dismal one of longing, love, tragedy, self-destruction, and revenge. I rather agree with the essayists that have claimed the book to be a commentary on the broader human condition rather than being a mere tragedy of ill-fated "love." I would contend that said love was more of a narcissistic obsession, but I digress.

Few books have left me so oddly conflicted. It was the prose that compelled me to see it through; her beautiful, complex, and bold manner of storytelling. I didn't care much for most of the characters presented, however. Only the long-time witness Ms. Dean captured much of my empathy, and so I believe it was best told predominantly through her perspective. To any bubble-headed optimist that would declare human nature to be primarily 'good', this book could possibly persuade them to accept that human nature is primarily selfish.

I appreciated that there was indeed a light at the end of that gloomy tunnel, though it took until very near the end to see it. A more pure love is refined out of the fires of hatred, and the following generation is freed of the tyranny and manipulation of the previous generation's bitter feud.

And just for fun, I give you my favorite version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91_jymgH8QY

I was so excited to read this book, it being a "classic" and all. Honestly, I had a very hard time reading all the way through. I realize life is not always perfect, and doesn't end happily all the time, but this book was just too much of a downer for me. The characters (the main ones) are all such terrible people. They were mean, spiteful and rotten to each other. I guess I just hate when pride gets in the way of kindness and then everything gets blown out of proportion, and eventually the characters were beyond salvation.

I think overall it's a good book to read if you want to learn how not to treat people! :) However, if you're looking for a great romance book, I wouldn't recommend this book. At least for me, it could totally be your cup of tea, but it's not mine. Sorry Emily Bronte.