The dark, mysterious foundling brought to Wuthering Heights who becomes the novel's primary antagonist and anti-hero. His obsessive love for Catherine and systematic revenge against those who wronged him drives much of the plot. He represents the forces of nature, passion, and vengeance.
Physical: Black eyes, dark-skinned, 'gipsy in aspect,' erect and handsome figure, gentleman in dress and manners though somewhat slovenly. Later becomes taller, athletic, well-formed with military bearing. In death, appears to sneer with eyes open.
Personality: Passionate, vengeful, manipulative, intelligent, volatile, emotionally unstable, capable of both deep love and profound cruelty. Becomes increasingly obsessed and supernatural in his final days.
Background: Found starving in Liverpool streets by Mr. Earnshaw, brought to Wuthering Heights as a child. Degraded by Hindley after Mr. Earnshaw's death, disappears for three years and returns wealthy and educated. Marries Isabella Linton for revenge, systematically destroys his enemies.
Transforms from degraded foundling to gentleman to monster of revenge. His love for Catherine becomes destructive obsession that consumes his life. Finally finds peace in death, reunited with Catherine's spirit.