Wuthering Heights · Chapter
VII explained
Nelly Dean continues her story, describing Heathcliff's jealousy of Edgar Linton and his desire for revenge against Hindley.
What happens
Nelly Dean continues her story, describing Heathcliff's jealousy of Edgar Linton and his desire for revenge against Hindley. After a violent outburst at dinner, Heathcliff is locked in the garret, but Catherine sneaks away from a Christmas party to visit him. Nelly reflects on Heathcliff's suffering and his vow to pay Hindley back. The chapter ends with Lockwood insisting Nelly continue her tale.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Cycle of Violence
Heathcliff explicitly plans revenge on Hindley, stating 'I'm trying to settle how I shall pay Hindley back. I don't care how long I wait, if I can only do it at last.'
Social Class and Inequality
Heathcliff laments his lack of wealth and appearance compared to Edgar Linton, and is physically excluded from the family dinner.
Cruelty and Power
Hindley abuses his authority over Heathcliff, shoving him and locking him in the garret, while Heathcliff's violent retaliation shows the cycle of cruelty.
Characters to notice
- Heathcliff
Expresses jealousy of Edgar Linton's appearance and social standing; vows revenge on Hindley; is locked in the garret after throwing hot sauce at Edgar.
- Nelly Dean
Attempts to comfort and advise Heathcliff; observes Catherine's hidden distress; facilitates Catherine's visit to Heathcliff in the garret.
- Catherine Earnshaw
Shows outward indifference but secretly weeps for Heathcliff; sneaks away from the party to visit him in the garret.
- Hindley Earnshaw
Treats Heathcliff cruelly, shoving him and locking him in the garret; hosts the Christmas party.
- Edgar Linton
Makes an innocent remark about Heathcliff's long hair, provoking Heathcliff's violent reaction.
- Isabella Linton
Present at the dinner; weeps after the altercation; later has no dance partner.
- Joseph
Ordered by Hindley to keep Heathcliff out of the room; refers to the Christmas music as 'devil's psalmody'.
- Mr. Lockwood
Urges Nelly to continue the story despite the late hour; expresses fascination with the characters.
Key passages
“Proud people breed sad sorrows for themselves.”
Those who are too proud end up causing their own unhappiness.
Nelly advises Heathcliff to humble himself and apologize to Catherine.
“I'm trying to settle how I shall pay Hindley back. I don't care how long I wait, if I can only do it at last.”
I am planning my revenge on Hindley, and I am willing to wait as long as it takes to achieve it.
Heathcliff reveals his deep desire for vengeance to Nelly.
“No, God won't have the satisfaction that I shall.”
God will not get the pleasure of punishing Hindley; I will do it myself.
Heathcliff rejects Nelly's suggestion to leave punishment to God.