Linton Heathcliff's Frail Existence

Traces the short, sickly life of Linton Heathcliff, used as a pawn by his father and dying young.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Arrival at the Grange

The Sickly Nephew A Mother's Last Wish After Isabella's death, Linton is brought to Thrushcross Grange by his uncle Edgar. He is a pale, delicate, effeminate boy, resembling Edgar but with a peevish expression. He is tired and fretful from the journey. First Meeting with Cathy Cathy is excited to meet her cousin, but Linton is whiny and demanding. He cries easily and complains of fatigue. Edgar hopes that company will improve him, but Nelly has misgivings. Taken by His Father Heathcliff demands his son back, and Edgar reluctantly agrees. Linton is taken to Wuthering Heights, where he is isolated and despised by his father. His health deteriorates further.

Pawn in the Revenge

The Tool A Father's Contempt Heathcliff despises his son's weakness but uses him to secure Thrushcross Grange. He forces Linton to write love letters to Cathy and to lure her into marriage. Linton is terrified of his father and obeys. Secret Meetings Linton meets Cathy on the moors, but he is listless and apathetic. He complains constantly and shows little affection. His only concern is to avoid his father's anger. Cathy is disappointed but pities him. The Forced Marriage When Edgar is dying, Heathcliff traps Cathy at the Heights and forces Linton to marry her. Linton is too weak to resist and too selfish to help her escape. He is a passive participant in his father's scheme.

Death and Release

The End of a Weakling Final Decline After the marriage, Linton's health collapses. He is bedridden, coughing blood. Cathy nurses him, but he is ungrateful and spiteful. He dies shortly after Edgar, leaving Cathy a widow. A Reluctant Death Linton's death is a relief to everyone except perhaps Cathy, who feels pity. Heathcliff shows no grief, only satisfaction that his plan succeeded. Linton's will leaves everything to his father, disinheriting Cathy. Legacy Linton is a tragic figure, born weak and made weaker by his father's cruelty. He never had a chance at a normal life. His death clears the way for Hareton and Cathy's happiness.

1797

1797-1801

1801