The Timeless Provocations of “Wuthering Heights” (the Novel)

The New Yorker

by Radhika Jones

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The release of Emerald Fennell’s film adaptation of *Wuthering Heights* has sparked renewed interest in Emily Brontë’s classic novel, with book sales surging—over 100,000 copies sold in the first two months of this year alone. While some worried about potential anachronistic changes or explicit scenes overshadowing the story, fans and casual readers alike are discovering—or rediscovering—the novel’s enduring appeal. Radhika Jones reflects on her own conflicted feelings toward the book, initially finding its stormy, nihilistic love story too intense, but upon re-reading it for Fennell’s film, she came to appreciate its discipline and complexity. Brontë’s novel is often seen as a tragic romance, but it also contains elements of respectability and social order. The story begins with Heathcliff, the mysterious orphan, being thrust into the Earnshaw family, where he endures cruelty and neglect from Hindley Earnshaw. Despite this, the novel ends with Hareton Earnshaw and Catherine Heathcliff marrying and restoring the family line, maintaining the social hierarchy. However, Brontë subverts traditional Victorian tropes by leaving Heathcliff’s origins unknown and his darkness unexplained, refusing to provide tidy resolutions or apologies for the harm he suffered. The novel’s refusal to reconcile its characters’ actions with conventional happily-ever-after endings challenges readers to grapple with its themes of revenge, isolation, and the persistence of social structures. While Fennell’s film adaptation may bring new interpretations and attention to the story, Brontë’s original work remains a powerful exploration of human relationships and societal expectations. Its resurgence in popularity highlights how timeless themes of love, identity, and social dynamics continue to resonate with readers today. For those interested in cultural commentary, *Wuthering Heights* offers insights into how classic literature evolves with modern reinterpretations. The book’s enduring relevance lies not just in its storytelling but in its ability to provoke thought about human nature and societal norms—making it a must-read for anyone exploring the intersection of

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/26/2026