Jekyll and Hyde

Definition

'Jekyll and Hyde' refers to the duality of human nature, symbolized by Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in Robert Louis Stevenson's novella 'Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde'. This concept explores the conflict between good and evil within a single individual, highlighting the struggle of identity and moral integrity, which aligns with the Gothic novel's themes of psychological complexity and the exploration of darker human instincts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Jekyll and Hyde' illustrates the tension between societal expectations and personal desires, a hallmark of the Gothic genre.
2. The physical transformation between Jekyll and Hyde represents the struggle between civilized behavior and primal instincts.
3. Stevenson uses elements like fog, darkness, and the setting of Victorian London to create a suspenseful atmosphere typical of Gothic literature.
4. The story suggests that everyone has a hidden side, challenging the notion of a fixed identity.
5. The novella critiques Victorian morality by exposing the hypocrisy present in society, especially regarding issues of class and reputation.

Review Questions

• How does 'Jekyll and Hyde' embody the theme of duality, and what impact does this have on the characters?
  • 'Jekyll and Hyde' vividly illustrates duality through its main characters representing opposing sides of human nature. Dr. Jekyll symbolizes the socially acceptable persona while Mr. Hyde embodies the repressed darker instincts. This duality impacts both characters profoundly; Jekyll's transformation into Hyde reveals his internal struggle with morality and identity, ultimately leading to his tragic downfall as he grapples with the consequences of unleashing his hidden self.
• Analyze how Stevenson employs Gothic conventions to enhance the story's themes of repression and identity.
  • Stevenson utilizes key Gothic conventions such as dark settings, eerie atmospheres, and psychological horror to amplify themes of repression and identity in 'Jekyll and Hyde'. The ominous streets of Victorian London serve as a backdrop that reflects Jekyll's internal conflict. Elements like fog symbolize confusion and ambiguity about identity. The horror stemming from Jekyll's transformations showcases how repressed desires can manifest destructively, illustrating the dangers of denying one's true self.
• Evaluate the societal implications presented in 'Jekyll and Hyde', particularly regarding Victorian morality and human nature.
  • 'Jekyll and Hyde' presents significant societal implications by critiquing Victorian morality through its exploration of human nature's complexity. The novella reveals how rigid societal norms can suppress individuality, leading to hidden vices that emerge violently when unrestrained. This critique is evident in Jekyll's desire to separate his respectable self from his baser instincts embodied by Hyde. Ultimately, Stevenson invites readers to question the authenticity of their own identities in a society that often prioritizes reputation over true moral character.

Related terms

Duality: The concept of two opposing aspects within a single entity, often representing conflicting moral principles or traits.

Gothic Horror: A genre characterized by elements of horror, the supernatural, and an emphasis on emotion, often set in dark or eerie environments.

Repression: The act of suppressing desires or impulses, which can lead to internal conflict, a common theme in Gothic literature.