Nature Vs. Nurture in Wuthering Heights

Nature and nurture wrestle for control over human destiny's steering wheel. This enduring argument questions whether a person's genetic makeup (nature) or their environment and experiences (nurture) play the more significant role in shaping their identity and actions. While external factors such as childhood experiences, social circles, and trauma undeniably influence decision-making, it is often the inherent qualities one is born with that ultimately define who they become. This complex interplay between nature and nurture is vividly illustrated through the characters of Catherine Earnshaw, Catherine Linton, Heathcliff, and Hareton Earnshaw in Emily Brontë's *Wuthering Heights*.

The Duality of Catherine Earnshaw

Catherine Earnshaw embodies the conflict between innate disposition and external influences. Her deep love for Heathcliff is undeniable; however, her intrinsic selfishness ultimately governs her choices. She opts to marry Edgar Linton, not out of love, but for the material and social benefits he can provide. This decision highlights her capacity for rationalizing her desires based on self-interest. A conversation between Nelly and Catherine encapsulates this tension: "But there are several other handsome, rich young men in the world: handsomer, possibly, and richer than he is. What should hinder you from loving them?" To which Catherine responds, "If there be any, they are out of my way I've seen none like Edgar" (Bronte 9). Here, Catherine's immediate desires overshadow her emotional truth, demonstrating how her nature overrides the nurturing environment.

Despite marrying Edgar, Catherine remains unashamedly open to betraying him for Heathcliff upon his return, underscoring her self-centered nature. This decision causes profound pain to both Edgar and Heathcliff, the two men who genuinely care for her. The narrative of Catherine Earnshaw suggests that while external factors shape decisions, it is one's innate nature that ultimately drives these decisions to fruition.

Catherine Linton: Inherited Traits

Catherine Linton, the daughter of Catherine Earnshaw, similarly exemplifies the dominance of nature over nurture. Upon moving to Wuthering Heights, she initially adopts a rude and ill-mannered demeanor, reflecting her adverse reaction to the environment. Her words, "No, I’ll not die, he’d be glad, he doesn’t love me at all, he would never miss me!" (Bronte 12), illustrate how environment can temporarily distort behavior. However, her inherent kindness eventually resurfaces, prompting her to cease mistreating Hareton Earnshaw and live a more fulfilling life. This transformation highlights the interplay between inherited traits and environmental pressures, suggesting that while the latter can influence one's actions, it is ultimately one's innate character that prevails.

Heathcliff's Nature

Heathcliff represents the darker side of the nature versus nurture debate. His experiences with Hindley Earnshaw, who constantly reminds him of his lack of entitlement to the Earnshaw wealth, ignite a deep-seated anger. This, combined with Catherine's decision to marry Edgar, fuels Heathcliff's vengeful nature. Upon returning to Wuthering Heights, Heathcliff's actions are driven by a desire to retaliate against those who wronged him. His manipulation of Isabella Linton into marriage and his mistreatment of her exemplify his spiteful disposition. As he plots to control Edgar's estate by marrying off his own son, Linton Heathcliff, to Catherine Linton, he demonstrates how his innate malevolence supersedes any external influence. Heathcliff's story is a testament to the power of nature in shaping behavior, as his actions are a direct manifestation of his intrinsic character.

Hareton Earnshaw: Loyalty Amidst Turmoil

Hareton Earnshaw offers a contrasting perspective on the nature versus nurture debate. Despite losing his inheritance and being mistreated by Heathcliff, Hareton's innate loyalty and politeness remain unyielding. Heathcliff uses Hareton as a pawn in his vendetta against Hindley, yet Hareton's steadfastness is undeterred by these environmental adversities. Heathcliff's words, "Now my bonny lad, you are mine! And we’ll see if one tree won’t grow as crooked as another, with the same wind to twist it!" reveal his attempt to distort Hareton's character (Bronte). Nevertheless, Hareton's loyalty shines through, illustrating how his inherent nature triumphs over the corrupting influences of his environment.

Conclusion: The Primacy of Nature

In conclusion, *Wuthering Heights* serves as a profound exploration of the nature versus nurture debate, with characters whose behaviors are shaped by both inherent traits and external circumstances. Catherine Earnshaw, Catherine Linton, Heathcliff, and Hareton Earnshaw exemplify the complex interplay between these forces, ultimately suggesting that nature often holds a more decisive influence over one's identity and actions. While nurturing environments can affect decision-making, it is the intrinsic qualities of an individual that define their true essence. This enduring theme in Brontë's novel continues to resonate today, as the question of nature versus nurture remains a compelling topic in understanding human behavior. By examining these characters, we gain insight into the enduring power of nature in shaping who we are, underscoring the importance of acknowledging both genetic and environmental factors in the formation of identity.

Did you like this example?

283

12