Chapter 12: Cathy's Desperate Plea for Attention in 'Wuthering Heights'

TLDRCathy, desperate for Edgar's attention, resorts to extreme measures. She relives childhood memories and expresses her longing to escape. Meanwhile, Mrs. Dean refuses to help, leading to a confrontation. Isabella and Heathcliff's plan to run away is revealed, causing turmoil.

Key insights

😒Cathy's desperate plea for attention reflects her desire to be loved and appreciated by Edgar.

😱Cathy's manipulation tactics and dramatic actions reveal her complex and troubled state of mind.

😮Mrs. Dean's refusal to aid Cathy highlights the tensions between loyalty and practicality.

😍Isabella and Heathcliff's plan to run away adds another layer of conflict and instability to the story.

😴The presence of dogs as symbols suggests the crossing of boundaries and the loss of humanity.

Q&A

Why is Cathy so desperate for Edgar's attention?

Cathy craves love and validation from Edgar, and her desperate actions stem from her fear of his indifference.

How does Mrs. Dean contribute to the escalating tension?

Mrs. Dean's refusal to help Cathy worsens the situation, leading to a confrontation between them.

What does Isabella and Heathcliff's plan reveal about their characters?

Their plan showcases their rebellious and passionate natures, further complicating the relationships in the novel.

What is the significance of the dogs in the story?

The presence of dogs symbolizes the loss of humanity and the violent revenge that Heathcliff is driven towards.

How does this chapter contribute to the overall themes of the novel?

Chapter 12 highlights the complexities of love, the destructive power of revenge, and the longing for a sense of belonging.

Timestamped Summary

00:01[Music]

00:09Cathy and Edgar still haven't spoken since their fight over Heathcliff.

00:18Cathy is locked in her bedroom, refusing to eat, while Edgar sulks in the library.

00:26Cathy begs Mrs. Dean to convince Edgar that she is in danger of starving herself.

00:35Mrs. Dean refuses, believing that Cathy is being manipulative.

00:48Cathy can't bear the idea of Edgar's indifference and asks Mrs. Dean to open the window.

01:25Cathy longs to run on the moors and be a child again.

01:42Edgar learns about Cathy's condition and confronts Mrs. Dean.