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Robbie Turner Tragic Hero Essay

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How far do you agree that Robbie Turner in Atonement and Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights are Tragic Heroes?

The topic of tragic heroes is one that is consistently discussed throughout literature.
Robbie Turner from Ian McEwan's Atonement is considered to be a tragic hero due to the events he is subjected to throughout the novel. These incidents, such as the rape accusation made by Briony and his enrolment in the army, focus on his constant downfall. I do agree to an extent that Robbie is a tragic hero due to these factors, yet I also believe that the term "tragic hero" is too simple to fully summarise Robbie, as his story throughout the novel is far more complex due to his overwhelming love for Cecilia.
Heathcliff from Emily Bronte's Wuthering …show more content…

When he meets with Catherine's ghost he declares his love for her, revealing the depth of his passion and longing for her as he says "Catherine Earnshaw, may you not rest as long as I am living; you said I killed you—haunt me then! The murdered do haunt their murderers, I believe. I know that ghosts have wandered on earth. Be with me always—take any form—drive me mad! only do not leave me in this abyss, where I cannot find you!", this quote shows the intensity of Heathcliff's emotions as he begs Catherine to haunt him and be with him constantly, even if it means driving him mad. It shows that he can not stand the thought of being separated from her, even in death. This demonstrates his inability to let go of his pain and anger. Furthermore, the fact that Catherine's ghost disappears after this encounter underscores the tragic nature of the moment.
In the end, Heathcliff's death can be seen as a tragic ending to his story. As he dies he may be reunited with Catherine in death, but this reunion comes at a cost. Heathcliff's desire for revenge has destroyed his own life and the lives of those around him. As Heathcliff dies in the novel he realises the extent of the damage has caused saying "I have lost the faculty of enjoying their destruction, and I am too idle to …show more content…

An example of Heathcliff's noble qualities is shown in his relationship with Hareton. An interpretation of their relationship is made by Alexandra Hawes where she states "HEATHCLIFF CAN'T HELP BUT FEEL SOME SORT OF AFFECTION, AND SYMPATHY FOR HARETON, AS HE REMINDS HEATHCLIFF OF HIMSELF." She goes on to support this idea with many valid points. I can not help but agree with this interpretation of their relationship as it is suggested in the novel. As Heathcliff may treat Hareton as a servant, this is only because Heathcliff grew up this exact way. His noble quality is shown in this interpretation as it backs up the idea that Heathcliff has sort of a family type of affection for

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