 The uncertain fate of Heathcliff's soul, combined with the mystery that Heathcliff's character leaves behind, ends the novel in a mesmerizing, eerie way, justifying Heathcliff's enduring status as an iconic anti-hero of literature.In 1939, Laurence Olivier portrayed Heathcliff in "Wuthering Heights", directed by William Wyler.Olivier received an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for his performance.