Heathcliff is a foundling saved from starvation by Mr. Earnshaw on the streets of Liverpool. The man raised him with his children in Yorkshire. Heathcliff is a child of unknown descent. His wild personality often seems dangerous, and his actions deem amoral by other people. He is fierce but magnificent in his determination and consistency.
Detailed answer:
The only novel by the English writer and poet Emily Brontë is Wuthering Heights. The detailed description of rural life, romantic elements, and vivid imagery make it a masterpiece among the late romantic novel. The book became famous for its lively and colorful characters.
Heathcliff is one of the main characters of the novel. He resembles a Byronic hero whose all-consuming passions destroy him and those around him. His extraordinary dedication to Catherine is the driving force in his life. Heathcliff is full of vengeance and hatred towards those who come between him and his beloved.
His origin, early childhood, and the circumstances of his birth are vaguely described in the novel. His appearance bears a close resemblance to a gypsy or Roma. His skin is swarthy, hair and eyes are dark. These features can also indicate that Heathcliff is of a mixed race. Despite his odd appearance, he is the main character of the story. Heathcliff is crucial to the plot development.
Many of Heathcliff’s actions from early childhood demonstrate the brutality. It causes others to be wary of him. However, Heathcliff is mainly known for his genuine feelings towards Catherine Earnshaw. It is after he starts seeking revenge that he turns into a cruel and unsocial person.
Heathcliff combines both the traits of a positive romantic hero and a villain. It makes his character interesting and attractive to the reader.