Mr. Heathcliff

Linton Heathcliff is a dark-featured, intense foundling of mysterious origins brought to Wuthering Heights as a child. Favored by the old master, he falls into degradation after Mr. Hindley Earnshaw inherits the farm, enduring harsh labor and systematic humiliation while forbidden closer contact with Catherine Earnshaw, his constant childhood companion. His growing bitterness, combined with an almost diabolical sullenness, poisons the household atmosphere during his youth. He departs as a young man after a crucial betrayal, only to return years later as a wealthy gentleman, his exterior transformed but his vengeful nature intact. Reserved by temperament and averse to displays of feeling, he conducts himself with erect dignity and gentlemanly dress, yet his black eyes and stern countenance betray the darkness that has shaped him. His return sets in motion a chain of manipulation and revenge that entangles two generations, as he methodically works to reclaim what he believes was stolen from him—though his true motives and the depth of his connection to Catherine Earnshaw remain shadowed by his impenetrable reserve.