Wuthering Heights Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for Wuthering Heights.
Wuthering Heights Ending Explained: Young orphan Heathcliff is adopted by the wealthy Earnshaw family and moves into their estate, Wuthering Heights. Directed by William Wyler, this 1939 drama film stars Merle Oberon (Catherine 'Cathy' Earnshaw Linton), alongside Laurence Olivier as Heathcliff, David Niven as Edgar Linton, Flora Robson as Ellen Dean. Rated 7.2/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.
What Happens at the End of Wuthering Heights?
Young orphan Heathcliff is adopted by the wealthy Earnshaw family and moves into their estate, Wuthering Heights. Soon, the new resident falls for his compassionate foster sister, Cathy. The two share a remarkable bond that seems unbreakable until Cathy, feeling the pressure of social convention, suppresses her feelings and marries Edgar Linton, a man of means who befits her stature. Heathcliff vows to win her back.
William Wyler's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Merle Oberon (Catherine 'Cathy' Earnshaw Linton)'s journey. Soon, the new resident falls for his compassionate foster sister, Cathy.
How Does Merle Oberon (Catherine 'Cathy' Earnshaw Linton)'s Story End?
- Merle Oberon: Merle Oberon's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with William Wyler delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 44m runtime.
- Laurence Olivier (Heathcliff): Laurence Olivier's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- David Niven (Edgar Linton): David Niven's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Wuthering Heights Mean?
The ending of Wuthering Heights ties together the narrative threads involving Merle Oberon. William Wyler chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes.