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Recluses: Emily Bronte

Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights sent shockwaves through Victorian society, and it is still a hugely debated and much-loved novel. What can we learn from the mind that wrote it?

Naomi Alderman returns with her series that explores the minds of the greatest thinkers in history. From political theorists to scientists to inventors, authors and artists. Our world is based on their ideas and innovations. How did they do their work, what did they struggle with, where did they find their dedication, creativity and inspiration?

Emily Bronte’s novel Wuthering Heights sent shockwaves through Victorian society when it was published, and it is a novel that continues to stir debate and discussion today. What can we learn of the mind that conjured up such a piece of work? And how did her reclusive nature bring greater depth and focus to her writing?

Special thanks to Dr Claire O’Callaghan, Senior Lecturer in Victorian Literature at Loughborough University.

Produced by BBC Studios in partnership with The Open University.

Presenter: Naomi Alderman
Executive Editor: Philip Sellars
Production Co-ordinator: Amelia Paul
Researchers: Harry Burton, Martha Owen and Victoria Brignell
Mix Engineer: Nigel Appleton
Series Producer: Anishka Sharma
Production Manager: Jo Kyle

Release date:

14 minutes

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