Emily Bronte

A mid-18th-century novelist, Emily Bronte, had her work in English and had good recognition because of her outstanding work, "Wuthering Heights," a great classic in today's English literature. In this article, we will delve into her outstanding life and connect the various anecdotes that define her journey in the best way.

Early Years

Born on July 30, 1818, Emily Jane Bronte was a gifted author and poet from England. Wuthering Heights, her classic novel, is her most well-known work. Emily co-wrote the poetry collection Poems by Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell with her sisters Charlotte and Anne. Ellis Bell was the pen name Emily used when writing.

Growing up in Yorkshire

During her early years, Emily and her parents, Maria and Patrick Brontë, resided in the Yorkshire, England village of Thornton. Out of her six siblings, she was the second youngest. Emily's mother died when she was just three years old, which was a very early death. Maria's sister, Elizabeth Branwell, took up the role of carer for the young Brontë children.

Education and Loss

The Clergy Daughters School at Cowan Bridge was attended by Emily's older sisters, Maria, Elizabeth, and Charlotte. When Emily was six years old, she briefly joined them, but the unforgiving school environment caused Maria and Elizabeth to become ill and eventually pass away. Following this devastating loss, Emily's father, Patrick, had her and Charlotte removed from the school.

At-Home Education

The remaining Brontë siblings received their education at home from their father and aunt, including Emily and her brother Branwell. The Brontë children had access to a vast library of literature despite not receiving a formal education, including works by Byron, Shelley, Sir Walter Scott, and other authors. The exposure led to the development of a well-trained holistic approach to writing and defining power in Bronte and her siblings.

Creative Starts (World of Gondal)

Inspired by the toy soldiers Branwell got as presents, Emily's passion for storytelling flourished as she and her siblings made up fictional kingdoms. They first created tales about a region known as Angria. But when Emily and Anne were thirteen, they began to concentrate on Gondal, a made-up island that captivated them for the rest of their lives.

Themes and Influence of Gondal

Some of Emily's "diary papers" from her twenties describe occurrences in the Gondal realm. However, most of her early writing is lost. These tales frequently dealt with romanticism and the notion of the "noble savage." Later on, Emily's masterwork Wuthering Heights would be influenced by these characteristics.

Short-Term Education and Homesickness

Emily temporarily attended the Roe Head Girls' School, where Charlotte was a teacher when she turned seventeen. However, after a few months, Emily became severely homesick and moved out. Later, Charlotte disclosed that Emily believed she would die without liberty and that Emily needed liberty to survive. After Emily went back home, Anne took over her role at the school.

Literary Influence and Legacy

Emily's official schooling was short, but she and her sisters still wanted to learn enough to start a little school. Emily's singular work, Wuthering Heights, serves as a showcase for her innovative and impassioned narrative, but her true brilliance lies elsewhere. Her writings continue to enthrall readers throughout, and her influence on English literature is enduring.

Journey into Adulthood

In the year 1838, when Emily was only twenty, she took on the role of a teacher at Law Hill School in Halifax. Sadly, her delicate health suffered from the strain of long working hours, leading her to return home in 1839. Back in Haworth, she took charge of household chores and taught herself German and piano.

In 1842, Emily, alongside her sister Charlotte, ventured to Brussels for further education at the Héger Pensionnat. Despite excelling in studies, Emily felt out of place, refusing to conform to Belgian fashions. Constantin Héger, their teacher, praised Emily's exceptional character, envisioning her as a great navigator if she were a man.

The sisters were dedicated students, mastering French to the extent that Madame Héger suggested they stay longer. Emily's skills in music hinted at a potential teaching role. However, family matters forced them to return to Haworth in 1843.

In 1844, the Brontë sisters attempted to start a school at home, but attracting students proved challenging. Emily, in 1844, diligently organized her poems into notebooks, one labeled "Gondal Poems." In 1845, Charlotte discovered them, leading to the publication of their poems under pseudonyms in 1846.

Emily, known as "Ellis Bell," fiercely guarded her privacy but eventually agreed to publish. The sisters faced initial discouragement, with only two copies sold, but they pressed on. Critics praised Emily's work for its music and power, recognizing her as a unique literary voice in a utilitarian age. This marked the beginning of Emily Brontë's public presence and her journey into adulthood as a published writer.

Sisterhood and Fantasy World

Emily's closest confidante was her sister Anne, and together, they crafted a fantastical realm known as Gondal. Described as "inseparable companions" and "like twins" in childhood, their bond endured throughout their lives. The sisters embarked on a memorable trip, acting out their Gondal characters and creating lasting memories. Charlotte Brontë, as the primary source of information about Emily, provides valuable insights into their relationship, although certain scholars question the neutrality of her perspective.

Charlotte's Perspective

Charlotte Brontë's portrayal of Emily in the aftermath of her death has been a subject of scrutiny. Some scholars argue that Charlotte, in her role as Emily's mythographer, may have reshaped her sister's character and history to align with societal expectations. Charlotte presented Emily as a naturally solitary and shy individual whose love for nature bordered on exaggeration. This narrative, according to biographer Claire O'Callaghan, was significantly influenced by Elizabeth Gaskell's biography of Charlotte, altering the trajectory of Emily Brontë's legacy.

Unraveling Emily's Solitude

Emily's unsociable and extremely shy nature is a recurring theme in accounts of her life. Descriptions portray her as having a "warm, human aspect," revealed primarily through her love of nature and animals. Despite her reserved demeanor, Emily's intimate relationship with the moors and wildlife became a source of inspiration for her literary works, notably "Wuthering Heights."

Contradictions and Anecdotes

Anecdotes about Emily's interactions with nature abound, showcasing a nuanced character. Contrary to Elizabeth Gaskell's apocryphal account of Emily punishing her pet dog Keeper, other sources paint a different picture of their relationship. Keeper, Emily's faithful friend, understood her like a human being, and his presence brought joy even to her funeral. Emily's watercolor depiction of Keeper further attests to their deep connection.

A Peculiar Mix of Qualities

Eva Hope's summary of Emily's character in "Queens of Literature of the Victorian Era" describes her as a "peculiar mixture of timidity and Spartan-like courage." Emily, painfully shy yet physically brave, loved few persons intensely and exhibited self-sacrificing tenderness. She approached others' failings with understanding and forgiveness, maintaining an austere watch over herself to uphold what she deemed her duty.

Devout Mystic of the Moors

In the literary landscape, Emily Brontë has been characterized as a devout, albeit unorthodox Christian—a heretic and a visionary "mystic of the moors." This spiritual dimension adds another layer to the complexity of her character, hinting at a profound connection between her inner world and the untamed beauty of the Yorkshire moors.

Wuthering Heights

Emily Brontë, the brilliant mind behind the timeless classic "Wuthering Heights," remains an enigmatic figure in literary history. Painted by Branwell Brontë in 1833, Emily's portrait reflects the mystery and complexity that shrouds her personality and character.

"Wuthering Heights," penned by Emily Brontë, stands as a literary cornerstone, challenging conventions and leaving an indelible mark on English literature. This dark and passionate tale, initially published in 1847 under the pseudonyms Ellis and Acton Bell, was met with both shock and admiration due to its innovative structure and intense narrative. This write-up explores the novel's publication history, reception, and the enduring legacy it has carved in the literary landscape.

Publication and Pseudonym

The novel made its debut in London in 1847 as the first two volumes of a three-volume set, accompanied by Anne Brontë's "Agnes Grey." The mysterious pseudonyms Ellis and Acton Bell concealed Emily's real identity until 1850, adding an air of intrigue to the novel's initial reception. Emily's true name was revealed on the title page of a commercial edition, cementing her authorship.

Innovative Structure and Victorian Reception

"Wuthering Heights" presented an innovative narrative structure that puzzled contemporary critics. Its unconventional approach, characterized by complex timelines and unreliable narrators, defied the expectations set by the more traditional novels of the time. The novel's violence and passion led Victorian readers and reviewers to speculate that it had been written by a man, with Juliet Gardiner noting the "vivid sexual passion and power of its language" that both impressed and unsettled critics.

Contrary to the anticipated Bildungsroman, influenced by Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre," readers found themselves immersed in a tale of unchecked primal passions, savage cruelty, and outright barbarism. This departure from the expected norms initially resulted in mixed reviews, and the novel faced criticism for its portrayal of amoral passion.

Enduring Legacy

Despite the initial controversy and critical reception, "Wuthering Heights" emerged as a literary classic over time. Emily Brontë, unfortunately, did not witness the extent of her novel's fame, passing away just a year after its publication at the age of 30. The enduring allure of the novel lies in its exploration of complex characters, tumultuous relationships, and the harsh Yorkshire moors that serve as a haunting backdrop.

The Enigma of Emily's Second Novel

While a letter from Emily's publisher suggests she had begun work on a second novel, no manuscript has ever been found. Speculation abounds regarding the fate of this potential work, with possibilities ranging from its destruction by Emily or her family due to illness preventing its completion to the intriguing notion that the letter was intended for Anne Brontë, who was concurrently working on her second novel, "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall."

A Life Shaped by Death

Emily Brontë, the enigmatic and talented author of "Wuthering Heights," faced a life marked by tragedy and ill health. Born into the Brontë family in the harsh local climate of Haworth, Emily's health was likely compromised by the unsanitary conditions at home. Water contaminated by runoff from the church's graveyard surrounded their residence, contributing to the challenging environment she lived in.

The first blow came with the sudden death of her brother, Branwell, on September 24, 1848. At Branwell's funeral service a week later, Emily caught a severe cold, which swiftly progressed to inflammation of the lungs and, ultimately, tuberculosis. Despite her worsening condition, Emily adamantly rejected medical assistance, stating that she would have "no poisoning doctor" near her. The decline in her health was a source of deep anguish for her sister Charlotte, who wrote of the dark moments, seeking divine support for the family.

On the morning of December 19, 1848, Emily's condition deteriorated further. Unable to speak above a whisper, she finally expressed a willingness to see a doctor, but it was too late. Emily Brontë passed away that same day at around two in the afternoon. An early biographer, Mary Robinson, noted that she died while sitting on the sofa. However, Charlotte's mention of Emily's dog, Keeper, lying by her dying bed raises questions about the exact circumstances.

Emily's death, occurring less than three months after Branwell's, led the housemaid Martha Brown to declare that "Miss Emily died of a broken heart for love of her brother." The physical toll of her illness was evident in the size of her coffin, measuring a mere 16 inches wide, a testament to the extent of her physical decline.

Her remains found their final resting place in the family vault at St Michael and All Angels Church, Haworth, concluding a life marred by tragedy and suffering.

Despite her untimely demise, Emily Brontë's legacy endures through her literary contributions. The English folk group The Unthanks paid tribute to her with "Lines," a trilogy of albums featuring musical renditions of Brontë's poems recorded at the Brontës' parsonage home. Her influence also reached the world of cinema, with portrayals in films such as "Devotion" (1946) and the more recent "Emily" (2022), where Emma Mackey embodies the pre-" Wuthering Heights" Emily in a narrative that blends fact with fiction.

Furthermore, Emily's written works, including handwritten poems, have resurfaced in the Honresfield Library collection. The 2021 auction of this rare collection, estimated at £1 million, underscored the enduring fascination with Emily Brontë's literary contributions.

In the realm of music, Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo honored Emily's poetry by setting select pieces to music, showcasing the profound impact her words continue to have on creative expressions across various mediums. Thus, Emily Brontë's legacy persists, transcending time and continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.

Enduring Impact of Emily Bronte

Emily Bronte, a literary luminary of the 19th century, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature. Her magnum opus, "Wuthering Heights," is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers across generations. However, beyond her acclaimed novel, Emily's influence permeates various forms of art and culture, creating a rich tapestry of legacy that transcends time.

One notable homage to Emily Brontë's legacy comes in the form of "Lines," a trilogy of short albums released by the English folk group The Unthanks. This musical endeavor is a unique celebration of Brontë's poetic prowess, as her verses are set to music and recorded at the very heart of the Brontës' history—their parsonage home. The haunting melodies, played on the Brontës' own Regency-era piano by Adrian McNally, infuse new life into Emily's verses, creating an ethereal connection between past and present.

In the cinematic realm, the 2019 film "How to Build a Girl" pays tribute to the Brontë sisters, placing Emily and Charlotte among the historical figures in Johanna's wall collage. This subtle acknowledgment underscores the enduring relevance of the Brontës' lives and works, emphasizing their lasting impact on popular culture.

The year 2021 brought a remarkable rediscovery—the Honresfield Library, a collection of rare books and manuscripts assembled by Rochdale mill owners Alfred and William Law. Among its treasures were handwritten poems by Emily Brontë and the family edition of Bewick's 'History of British Birds.' This literary treasure trove, hidden from public view for nearly a century, serves as a testament to the ongoing fascination with the Brontës' writings. The subsequent auction at Sotheby's, with an estimated value of £1 million, highlights the enduring value placed on Emily Brontë's contributions to literature.

The intersection of fact and fiction in the 1946 film "Devotion" provides a cinematic lens into the lives of the Brontë sisters. Though highly fictionalized, the film underscores the enduring allure of the Brontë mythos, weaving a narrative that captures the imagination while acknowledging the challenges and complexities of their lives.

Fast forward to 2022, and Emily Brontë's legacy continues to inspire filmmakers. "Emily," a film written and directed by Frances O'Connor, explores the enigmatic period before the publication of "Wuthering Heights." With Emma Mackey portraying Emily, the film delves into both known biographical details and imagined scenarios, adding a layer of creative interpretation to the Brontë narrative. This cinematic venture reaffirms Emily's status as a muse for contemporary storytellers, inviting audiences to reimagine the life of this literary icon.

Beyond the realms of music and film, Emily Brontë's poetry finds a unique expression through Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo. Commissioned by the San Francisco Choral Society, Gjeilo sets select poems to music, incorporating SATB chorus, string orchestra, and piano. This composition not only showcases the timelessness of Emily's verses but also demonstrates the versatility of her work, as it seamlessly transitions from the written word to a symphony of sound.

As we delve into Emily Brontë's bibliography, her collaborative works with her sisters—published under the pseudonyms Bell, Currer, and Acton—further enrich her legacy. The 1846 collection of poems, titled "Poems," lays the foundation for the literary triumphs that would follow. Emily's solo venture into the world of novels came with the publication of "Wuthering Heights" in 1847 under the pseudonym Ellis Bell. This novel, a profound exploration of love, obsession, and the Yorkshire moors, solidified Emily's place in the pantheon of literary greats.

For those seeking a comprehensive collection of Emily Brontë's poetic works, Janet Gezari's edited volume, "Emily Jane Brontë: The Complete Poems," stands as a literary treasure. Published by Penguin Classics in 1992, this anthology provides readers with a comprehensive view of Emily's poetic genius, showcasing the depth and diversity of her verses.

Conclusion

Emily Brontë's legacy is a multifaceted tapestry woven through time, encompassing music, film, literature, and even the rediscovery of hidden literary treasures. Her ability to evoke the raw intensity of human emotion and the haunting beauty of the natural world continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. As we navigate the realms of artistic interpretation and scholarly exploration, Emily Brontë's words remain a beacon, guiding us through the labyrinth of love, loss, and the enduring power of literature.