THE QUESTION OF SURVIVAL: AN ECOCRITICAL STUDY OF EMILY BRONTE’S WUTHERING HEIGHTS

Abstract

Human actions toward nature have largely been driven by selfish interests and overconsumption. The constant exploitation of the natural world has led to serious ecological problems such as global warming, environmental pollution, and the destruction of ecosystems and many more. These environmental issues raise serious questions about the survival of both nature and humanity. Literary scholars can play important role in addressing these environmental problems and offering alternative ways of thinking. In this regard, the researcher dissects the novel Wuthering Heights through the lens of ecocriticism, focusing on the concepts of ecocentrism and anthropocentrism. By examining the character of Heathcliff and his symbolic relationship with other characters, the study highlights the historical bond between nature and human beings. It also shows the impacts of humanity’s different sort of relationships with nature by analyzing how Heathcliff, as a symbol of nature, is treated by different characters in the novel. The outcome of the study is deeper understanding of how these two ecocritical terms; anthropocentrism and ecocentrism offer two different paths for humanity. Anthropocentrism allows the exploitation of nature that leads to the ecological retribution and eventually, to the ecological apocalypse, whereas ecocentrism offers a way towards harmony, life, and survival.