Hareton Anti Hero Essay

The definition of a hero is a character whose ultimate goal is to help those in need while remaining within the law. This hero may have a traumatic past; however, must be able to overcome the past in order to help others. An anti-hero has similar motives as a hero; however, lack the positive attributes connoted of a hero. A hero has the desire for helping others; in addition, has typical traits: looks, reputation, honesty, integrity, and responsibility. An anti-hero lack said traits; however, intentionally or not, result in helping others. In Wuthering Heights, there were many villains throughout the novel; however, there was a limited amount of heroes. One hero, more accurately classified as an anti-hero, exists in said novel: Hareton Earnshaw.
From the beginning of his life to the end of his childhood, Hareton has been the victim of neglect and abused. Often used as a pawn for Heathcliff biddings, Hareton is often belittled and degraded to a slave. Hareton tried to help at multiple occasions but is often never credited or never seen as help. Rather, Hareton is called useless and treated as an outcast. However, Hareton never seems to stop helping others. This is important due to the fact Hareton’s past was riddled with trauma and abuse. Even though Hareton could have mistreated others due to his treatment, Hareton tries to control his temper to help those in need. Hareton’s past provide another reason why he is classified as an anti-hero. Despite his efforts, Hareton often cowers under a powerful presence. Due to his abuse, Hareton often looks out for himself and avoids any altercation with a more powerful presence. However, Hareton balances this out with the desire of self-improvement. By attempting to teach himself to read, Hareton is trying to emerge from a horrendous past. In the end, Hareton is treated like a hero: he gets the girl, home, and a new start to live his life. Hareton went from a servant to the owner of Wuthering