Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights is a classic novel that has captivated readers for generations. Whether you are revisiting this timeless tale or diving into it for the first time, an audiobook version can be a great way to experience the passionate and tragic story of Heathcliff and Catherine. But how long is the audiobook, and how can you listen to it for free? In this article, we explore everything you need to know.
How Long Is the Wuthering Heights Audiobook?
The length of the Wuthering Heights audiobook varies depending on the narrator and the publisher, but most unabridged versions range between 11 to 13 hours. Here are some popular versions:
- LibriVox (Public Domain Version) – Approximately 11 hours
- Audible Narrated by Juliet Stevenson – Around 12 hours and 30 minutes
- Naxos Audiobooks Edition – About 13 hours
The shorter versions typically have faster narration, while some editions may include additional commentary or dramatizations that extend the runtime.
Where Can You Listen to Wuthering Heights for Free?
Thankfully, because Wuthering Heights was published in 1847, it is in the public domain, meaning free audiobook versions are available online. Here are some of the best platforms where you can listen to it without any cost:
1. LibriVox
LibriVox offers free audiobooks recorded by volunteers. You can find multiple versions of Wuthering Heights, each with a different narrator or style. The book can be streamed directly from their website or downloaded for offline listening.
How to Access:
- Visit LibriVox and search for Wuthering Heights.
- Choose from different volunteer narrators.
- Download the MP3 files or listen via their mobile app.
2. Project Gutenberg
While Project Gutenberg primarily provides free e-books, they also offer audiobook recordings of public domain books, including Wuthering Heights. Their audiobook section includes both narrated versions and computer-generated readings.
How to Access:
- Go to Project Gutenberg.
- Search for Wuthering Heights in the audiobook section.
- Select a recorded version to stream or download.
3. YouTube
Many users upload full audiobook versions of Wuthering Heights to YouTube. Be sure to check the video length to ensure you’re getting a complete version rather than just excerpts.
How to Access:
- Search for Wuthering Heights audiobook full on YouTube.
- Look for reputable uploaders, such as those featuring LibriVox recordings.
- Enjoy the audiobook with subtitles or chapter breaks.
4. Internet Archive
The Internet Archive is another excellent resource for free audiobooks. They have multiple versions of Wuthering Heights available for streaming or download.
How to Access:
- Visit archive.org.
- Search for Wuthering Heights audiobook.
- Select a version and either stream it or download the audio files.
Benefits of Listening to Wuthering Heights as an Audiobook
Listening to an audiobook version of Wuthering Heights offers several advantages:
- Enhances understanding: Hearing the dialogue spoken can make the thick Yorkshire dialect and complex emotions more comprehensible.
- Convenience: Listen while doing household chores, exercising, or commuting.
- A performance-like experience: Professional narrators bring the characters to life, making the story even more engaging.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to experience the tragic and passionate world of Wuthering Heights in a new way, a free audiobook version is a fantastic option. With a runtime of about 11 to 13 hours, you can immerse yourself in Emily Brontë’s masterpiece at your own pace.
By using platforms like LibriVox, Project Gutenberg, YouTube, or the Internet Archive, you can listen to the novel completely free and legally. So why wait? Find a quiet moment, put on your headphones, and let the haunting story of love and revenge transport you to the wild Yorkshire moors.
