Emerald Fennell's film adaptation of 'Wuthering Heights' claims to depict the "greatest love story of all time", a sentiment echoed by a recent poll of British readers. However, the article delves into the complexities of Heathcliff's character in Emily Brontë's original novel, suggesting that his tumultuous and obsessive relationship with Catherine Earnshaw raises questions about the true nature of romance. While marketed as a love story, the narrative reveals a darker side that complicates traditional romantic notions.

Set against the bleak Yorkshire moors, 'Wuthering Heights' navigates themes of obsession, class, and revenge through the character of Heathcliff, who is portrayed not simply as a tortured lover but as a figure driven by deep-seated anguish and a desire for retribution. The interplay between his feelings for Catherine and his harsh treatment of those around him, including his wife Isabella Linton, prompts readers to reconsider the romantic label typically assigned to the story. Heathcliff’s actions, particularly after marrying Isabella, are framed as cruel and selfish, challenging the idea that such love can be deemed romantic in a conventional sense.

The article concludes by suggesting that while 'Wuthering Heights' may be viewed through the lens of romanticism, its core themes present a cautionary tale about passion that transcends the simplistic notion of love. Heathcliff's turbulent relationships ultimately highlight the complexities of human emotions and the sometimes destructive nature of love, indicating that his perspective on romance would likely be far more skeptical than the prevalent portrayal of the story as purely romantic in nature.