Questions and Answers
What does Nelly refer to with 'the moaning doll of a child laid on my knee'?
What does Nelly imply when she says 'laughter is sadly out of place under this roof'?
It signifies a serious atmosphere at Thrushcross Grange after Hindley's actions.
Who does Isabella refer to when she says 'Do you think he could bear to see me grow fat and merry'?
Heathcliff
Heathcliff's emotions are described as 'the muscles of his countenance are involuntarily distorted into an expression of ______'
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What does Isabella mean when she says, 'I gave him my heart, and he took and pinched it to death, and flung it back to me'?
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What does Isabella say about Heathcliff's expression being devoid of a ferocious sneer?
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What does Isabella mean when she states 'it is preferable to be hated than loved by him'?
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What do 'the clouded windows of hell' describe?
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The phrase 'hanging a litter of ______ from a chair back' refers to Hareton
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What does Isabella mean by 'ailing peevish creature'?
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What characterization does Heathcliff express about Linton?
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What does the phrase 'died true to his character: drunk as a lord' refer to?
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What does Heathcliff say to Hareton with 'Now, my bonny lad, you are mine!'?
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What does 'the guest was now the master of Wuthering Heights' signify?
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Study Notes
Character Dynamics and Relationships
- Nelly refers to little Cathy's toy as "the moaning doll of a child laid on my knee," highlighting the innocence lost amidst turmoil.
- Isabella comments that "laughter is sadly out of place under this roof," indicating the oppressive atmosphere at Thrushcross Grange following Hindley's actions.
- Isabella expresses her feelings about Heathcliff, wondering if he could tolerate her happiness with the line, "Do you think he could bear to see me grow fat and merry?"
Heathcliff's Emotional State
- Heathcliff's emotions are conflicted; his "countenance is involuntarily distorted into an expression of hatred," signifying his struggle between control and emotional turmoil.
- Isabella describes her love for Heathcliff in painful terms: "I gave him my heart, and he took and pinched it to death, and flung it back to me," illustrating her deep emotional suffering.
Isabella's Perspective on Love
- Isabella states, "it is preferable to be hated than loved by him," reflecting her realization of the toxic nature of her relationship with Heathcliff.
- Her description of Heathcliff's eyes as "the clouded windows of hell" depicts his deep-seated anger and despair.
Family and Legacy Themes
- Hareton is depicted as "hanging a litter of puppies from a chair back," symbolizing a carefree yet morally ambiguous childhood, reflecting the neglect he experiences.
- Isabella refers to her son Linton as an "ailing peevish creature," indicating the impact of the tumultuous family dynamics on the next generation.
Power Struggles
- Upon learning Linton's name, Heathcliff "smiled grimly" and notes, "They wish me to hate it too do they? I'll have it when I want it," revealing his vindictiveness and desire for control.
- Hindley's character meets his demise as "drunk as a lord," emphasizing his downfall tied to alcoholism and neglect, at the age of 27.
Shifts in Authority
- Heathcliff's declaration to Hareton, "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!" indicates his intention to mold Hareton in his image.
- The statement "the guest was now the master of Wuthering Heights" marks a significant power shift, showcasing Heathcliff's ultimate control over the estate and its inhabitants.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key quotes from Chapter 17 of Wuthering Heights with these flashcards. Each card features a significant quote along with its context, offering insights into the characters and themes. Perfect for studying this classic novel.
