Wuthering Heights Neilly Quotes

Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights is eloquently written in a way that allows the reader to connect with the characters by obtaining a deeper understanding of their traits based on their thoughts, words, and actions. The passage given from the story contributes to the overall development of the character Nelly Dean by representing her as a rather compassionate and bold individual who will not allow social status to get in the way of what she believes to be right. Nelly’s actions demonstrate a rather concerned, selfless and compassionate side of herself within this passage which allows the reader to gain a true understanding of just how humane she truly is. This side of her can be connected to her protective and maternal instincts, especially

Instead of reacting to the attacks on herself, she completely disregards them and focuses her attention on the young boy being worried “that

She appears to be this way in an effort to stand up for what she believes is right, no matter her low social status. As Hindley threatens her with a knife, instead of being frightened, Nelly says she would, “rather be shot.” (L16) With her witty comeback, it is perceived that she took the threat with no meaning. She does not result to being insulted by the attacks of a high class male, which is what one would normally expect out of a lower class lady such as herself during this time period. Nelly does not appear to be “afraid of his vagaries,” (L20) and “would not take it on any account.” (L21) She even acknowledges her rejection of his attacks and makes a point for the reader to understand that she will not be pushed around. Along with disregarding Hindley’s threats, Nelly makes threats of her own in enforcing the protection of Hareton. She vocalizes that Hindley “shall not meddle with him!” (L63) and that by her threats Hindley should “take warning.” (L71) The concept of social status does not appear to take effect for Nelly. By standing up to “Mr. Hindley,” (L16) she appears to have a sense of bravery that is unable to be matched, and uses it to do the right