1. Romanticism:
Wuthering Heights is considered a masterpiece of the Romantic literary movement, which placed emphasis on emotion, individualism, and the connection to nature. The novel reflects these themes through the passionate and intense relationships between its characters, their wild and untamed surroundings, and the contrast between the rugged moors and the civilized society.
2. Victorian Society:
The novel was written and published during the Victorian era, which was characterized by its strict social codes, moral values, and class distinctions. The novel explores these societal norms through the portrayal of different social classes, such as the wealthy Lintons and the working-class Earnshaws. It critiques the rigidity of these class divisions and the hypocrisy that existed within the seemingly respectable Victorian society.
3. Gothic Elements:
Wuthering Heights incorporates elements of Gothic literature, such as a dark and mysterious atmosphere, supernatural occurrences, and a sense of foreboding. The novel's setting on the wild and desolate Yorkshire moors, the haunted house, and the tragic events that unfold create an eerie and suspenseful atmosphere, common to Gothic literature.
4. Nature and Landscape:
The natural landscape of the Yorkshire moors plays a significant role in the novel, reflecting the emotional states and inner turmoil of its characters. The moors are depicted as both beautiful and dangerous, mirroring the complex and unpredictable nature of human emotions and relationships. The constant presence of nature emphasizes its influence on human behavior and destiny.
5. Gender Roles and Expectations:
Wuthering Heights challenges conventional gender roles and expectations of the Victorian era. The female characters, such as Catherine and Isabella, break traditional boundaries by asserting their individuality, expressing strong passions, and defying social norms. The male characters, such as Heathcliff and Edgar Linton, also embody complex and unconventional traits, subverting traditional ideas of masculinity.
6. Social Revenge:
The theme of social revenge is central to the novel. Heathcliff's desire for revenge against those who have wronged him fuels the tragic events that unfold. This theme reflects the social unrest and class tensions that existed during the Industrial Revolution, where the lower classes often felt exploited and sought justice through acts of rebellion or revenge.
In summary, the cultural context of Wuthering Heights is defined by the influence of Romanticism, the norms and values of Victorian society, Gothic literary elements, the role of nature and landscape, gender expectations, and the concept of social revenge. The novel reflects and interrogates the cultural context of its time, offering readers a complex and insightful exploration of human nature and society.