Who Heathcliff is
Mr Earnshaw brings Heathcliff home after finding him starving in Liverpool, and welcomes him into the family. Catherine becomes his closest companion, but her brother Hindley resents the affection their father gives the newcomer. Heathcliff bears Hindley's blows without complaint, though Nelly notices that he also uses this silence to win favour.
What Heathcliff wants
Heathcliff wants Catherine's love, but he also feels the sting of being denied education, rank and respect. When Hindley makes him a farm labourer, the distance between his position and Edgar Linton's becomes painfully clear. He asks Nelly to help him improve his appearance so Catherine will not look down on him.
Heathcliff and the others in the story
Catherine shares Heathcliff's freedom on the moors, yet she is also drawn to Edgar's comfort, manners and wealth. Her divided wishes place their bond under strain, especially when Heathcliff hears only part of her explanation for choosing Edgar. Their relationship makes love and belonging inseparable from the social standing Heathcliff lacks.
A best-known line
“Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
Questions
Who brings Heathcliff to Wuthering Heights?
Mr Earnshaw brings him home after finding him starving on a Liverpool street.
Why does Hindley hate Heathcliff?
Hindley sees Heathcliff as a rival for his father's love. His resentment begins when Heathcliff joins the household.
Is Heathcliff a villain or a victim?
Heathcliff is both a victim of cruelty and someone who acts cruelly. The novel shows his suffering without excusing the harm he causes.