Ch. 9-12

As the novel progresses, so does the relationship between Hindley and Hareton. Brontë reveals the instability of this father-son relationship through the story that Nelly tells Mr. Lockwood of her previous life. For example, after being reunited with a boy she helped raise, Nelly excitedly greets young Hareton who responds in an unusual manner. Nelly explains, "he raised his missile to hurl it; I commenced a soothing speech, but could not stay his hand: the stone struck my bonnet" which was followed by "a string of curses, which, whether he comprehended them or not, were delivered with practised" (Brontë 126). This is a clear example of the child that Hareton Earnshaw truly is. I think that the reason for this behavior is not because his father taught him to act this way, but because his father was never there to teach him anything else. Instead of learning from his father, Hareton is being brainwashed by Heathcliff to hate his father. In fact, Hareton remarks, "daddy cannot bide me, because I swear at him" (Brontë 127). Heathcliff has convinced him to hate his father. It seems to me that Hindley has given up all hope in caring for his son, evident by his actions and way of life. For example, Nelly explained to Catherine, "Hindley has been borrowing money on his land, and does nothing but play and drink" (Brontë 120). Since Hindley is never there for Hareton, Heathcliff decided to step in. It clearly came back to haunt Hindley because his son now has been taught to hate him. Even though there relationship seems to be hopeless, I have a feeling that Hareton will learn from his fathers mistakes, yet be scared by them forever.