Austin Li Period 6 Wuthering Heights: 1991 rewrite Often in many plays and novels, the author uses two

opposing sides and their differences to emphasize a duality in the work. This duality, which shows the opposition of each side the other, can propel the story forward while contributing to the works purpose. In Brontes Wuthering Heights, the conflict and differences between Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange symbolize the conflicts between the character themselves, all while expanding on the theme of civilizations battle with nature. Wuthering Heights and Thrushcross Grange are both houses situated in the same area, but they differ in many ways. Thrushcross Grange is a mansion that many would consider high class. It is located in and surrounded by a valley, and the region often has very good weather. The inside of the house is very comfortable and hospitable, embellished with splendid furniture and many vivid colors. Wuthering Heights, in comparison, is a relatively dull, bleak place. Situated near the moors, the house is constantly battling unpleasant weather and conditions. Unlike Thrushcross Grange, Wuthering Heights is not very hospitable, and lacks many basic comforts. Just looking at these two houses, one can see just how different they are, as well as the ideas they represent. The differences between these two houses say a lot about their residents as well. The residents of Thrushcross Grange seem to be better off than those of Wuthering Heights. This can be seen as Catherine decides to marry Edgar as a wonderful opportunity to benefit her family and Heathecliff. The peaceful and protective weather at Thrushcross Grange represents the serenity and calm of the residents, as well as their determination to protect their social values. The ruthless weather at Wuthering Heights, however, has made the residents themselves ruthless. Heathecliff and Hindley have proven themselves to be instinctive, cold-hearted at times, and ambitious. While the rough conditions of Wuthering Heights symbolize wildness, the serenity at Thrushcross Grange represents structure and civilization. The differences between these two houses, as well as what they represent contribute to the many ideas and themes expressed throughout the novel. The first is the eternal conflict between civilization (Thrushcross Grange) and human nature (Wuthering Heights). In the end, Heathecliffs victory in obtaining both houses shadows the victory of wildness over civilization itself. Another purpose of this contrast is to represent the distance between characters from opposing houses. Catherines movement from Wuthering Heights to Thrushcross Grange changed her to one with more poise and grace than before. Ultimately, the contrast between the two houses served to emphasize the contrast between the houses residents. Just through the contrast between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights, Bronte was able to relate many of the central ideas and themes shown throughout the story. The duality of these two houses ultimately is just a device in revealing what truly mattered: the constant conflict between the residents themselves. Through this comparison, Bronte was successfully able to convey the central themes of wildnesss power over civilization and the impossible love between the residents of the houses.