The Earnshaws live in the farmhouse that is called “Wuthering Heights.” It is situated on the northern side of the hill with the same name. Therefore, the novel’s title reflects the main setting, in addition to having a metaphoric meaning.
Detailed answer:
The Earnshaws are a family consisting of Catherine, her brother Hindley, their parents, and their adopted brother Heathcliff. They live in a farmhouse with several servants who assist them. Wuthering Heights gets its name from the hill on which it sits. “Wuthering” means “the blowing strongly of wind with a roaring sound.” “Heights” implies that the house is above sea level. Both names supposedly come from the Yorkshire dialect, as it is where the novel is set.
The description of the house is vivid, as it holds a major significance for the events. It has two floors and space under the roof, where Joseph, a servant, lives. The characters’ rooms may represent a hierarchy within the dwellers. As Heathcliff gains ownership of Wuthering Heights, he moves to the main bedroom that used to belong to his adopted parents. The sitting room, referred to as “House,” is where most of the novel’s major events occur.
The Heights stands in opposition to another house, Thrushcross Grange, which belongs to the Linton family. The Earnshaw farmhouse is a gloomy place in a Gothic style guarded by cruel dogs. On the other hand, the Lipton estate is beautiful, bright, and awe-inspiring for Heathcliff. Still, when he comes to the possession of both houses, he chooses the Heights as his residence. Think about it: why does he choose the option that only grows more depressing as the novel’s timeline develops?
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