Catherine's Dream of Heaven in Wuthering Heights

Briefly summarize Catherine's dream about heaven.

Catherine describes a dream to Nelly in which she is in heaven but feels out of place. Although she should be at peace in heaven, Catherine wishes to be in Wuthering Heights. The angels in heaven are angry that she continues weeping and fling her down to the moors. Returning to Wuthering Heights, Catherine’s tears of grief turn to tears of joy as she is where she feels she belongs. This dream both foreshadows Catherine’s future and helps the reader understand Lockwood’s dream. Catherine feels out of place in civilized heaven, preferring the nature and wildness of the moors. In Lockwood’s dream, Catherine’s ghost states that she has been in the moors for 20 years. Even in death, Catherine hasn’t escaped her need for the wildness of nature.

Final answer:

Catherine's dream about heaven reveals her true sense of belonging to Wuthering Heights and the moors, rather than in the civility of heaven, foreshadowing her future.

Explanation:

Catherine's dream about heaven is a significant motif in Wuthering Heights. In her dream, she finds herself in heaven, but is unable to feel at peace. Contrary to expectations of tranquility and belonging, Catherine feels out of place and yearns to return to Wuthering Heights. The angels, in response to her weeping, cast her out, sending her back to the moors. Her weeping turns to joy upon returning, indicating where her true sense of belonging lies. This poignant moment foreshadows Catherine's future, illustrating her deep connection with her home and the natural world of the moors. It also provides insight into her character, revealing her preference for the untamed wildness over the civility and order of heaven.

What does Catherine's dream about heaven reveal about her sense of belonging? Catherine's dream about heaven reveals that she truly belongs to Wuthering Heights and the moors, showing her preference for the wildness of nature over the civility of heaven. Her dream foreshadows her future choices and deep connection with her home.
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