Wuthering Heights, Chapter 4 summary
Chapter 4 of 34 · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Mrs. Dean explains the relationships at Wuthering Heights and tells her lonely listener how Mr. Earnshaw brings Heathcliff home from Liverpool. Her account shows Catherine becoming his companion, Hindley resenting their father's favoritism, and Heathcliff using that protection to demand Hindley's horse despite violent resistance.
What happens
- Seeking company over supper, the narrator asks Mrs. Dean about Heathcliff's wealth and the family relationships at Wuthering Heights.
- Mrs. Dean begins her childhood account with Mr. Earnshaw bringing a homeless child home from Liverpool.
- The household initially rejects the child, who receives the name Heathcliff and becomes close to Cathy.
- Mr. Earnshaw favors Heathcliff, while Hindley resents losing his father's affection and abuses the newcomer.
- Nursing Heathcliff through measles softens Mrs. Dean's hostility, though she still questions his apparent lack of gratitude.
- Heathcliff threatens to expose Hindley's beatings unless they exchange horses, and secures the exchange despite further attacks.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Wuthering Heights, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
Mrs. Dean distinguishes her childhood judgment from her present understanding. Heathcliff's silence does not establish forgiveness, even though she initially takes it that way.
Quick check
Why does Hindley surrender his colt to Heathcliff?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Wuthering Heights, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
