Heathcliff vs Hindley: A Feud of Brothers

Traces the escalating conflict between Heathcliff and Hindley, from childhood hatred to financial ruin.

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Childhood Enmity

The Seeds of Hate Jealousy from the Start Hindley resents Heathcliff from the moment he arrives. He sees him as a usurper of his father's affection. He bullies and beats Heathcliff, but the boy never retaliates openly. The Colt Incident Hindley tries to cheat Heathcliff out of a horse, but Heathcliff blackmails him by threatening to tell their father about the beatings. Hindley throws an iron weight at him, but Heathcliff stands his ground. A Father's Favoritism Old Earnshaw's preference for Heathcliff deepens Hindley's hatred. He is sent to college, but his resentment festers. He vows to reduce Heathcliff to his proper place.

Hindley's Tyranny

The Master's Cruelty Degradation After his father's death, Hindley reduces Heathcliff to a servant. He forbids him from associating with Catherine and forces him to work in the fields. Heathcliff bears it silently. The Flogging Hindley orders Heathcliff flogged for missing church. Catherine is punished by fasting. The children's rebellion only increases Hindley's cruelty. The Promise of Revenge Heathcliff tells Nelly he is trying to settle how to pay Hindley back. He is willing to wait years. This promise drives the rest of the conflict.

The Tables Turned

Revenge Achieved The Gambler's Downfall Heathcliff returns and ingratiates himself with Hindley, who is now a drunkard. He lends him money and wins his property at cards. Hindley becomes a tenant in his own house. The Violent Confrontation Hindley tries to kill Heathcliff but is overpowered. Heathcliff kicks and tramples him, then binds his wounds. Hindley is left a broken man. Death and Legacy Hindley dies in debt, and Heathcliff becomes master of Wuthering Heights. Hareton is left dependent on his father's enemy. The feud ends with Hindley's complete defeat.

1771-1773

1773-1780

1783-1784