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The wild nature of Heathcliff

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Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte is an HKCEE text.

A disturbing character

Heathcliff is at the centre of the novel Wuthering Heights. He is seen as one of the first Romantic heroes - passionate men of action inspired by 18th century poet Lord Byron.

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Heathcliff is full of contradictions and mysteries. He is a hero full of energy and passion who inspires devotion from both Cathy and Isabella. Yet, he is also destructive and cruel, self-obsessed and dangerous.

Mysterious origins

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Mr Earnshaw brought Heathcliff back to Wuthering Heights after a trip to Liverpool. He was a 'dirty, ragged, black-haired child' (P. 77) whom he had picked up 'starving and houseless' on the streets. He is known throughout the book by the single name - Heathcliff.

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