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What is the central idea of appearance vs reality in the novella?
Characters and settings project respectable appearances that hide darker truths, creating a form of duality. (Throughout)
How does the door in Chapter 1 symbolise appearance vs reality?
Enfield’s story shows a door can hide the truth of someone’s nature; Hyde ‘had a key’, crossing between public respectability and hidden evil. (Chapter 1)
What does the metaphor of the door suggest?
Doors represent transition between outward appearance and inner reality, reinforcing secrecy. (Chapter 1)
What does the oxymoron ‘shady lawyers’ imply?
It exposes hypocrisy: lawyers should uphold justice but may be corrupt, highlighting hidden immorality. (Chapter 1)
How does Utterson challenge the stereotype of ‘shady lawyers’?
He defies it by acting as the moral compass of the novella, showing appearances can mislead. (Throughout)
How does the novella’s form reinforce appearance vs reality?
Plain chapter titles hide shocking content, creating an extended metaphor for concealed truth. (Throughout)
How does Stevenson use understatement to hide reality?
Calm, restrained narration masks horrific events, forcing the reader to uncover the truth beneath the surface. (Throughout)
How does Hyde’s ability to move freely between spaces reflect the theme?
His key symbolises access to both respectable and immoral worlds, blurring boundaries. (Chapter 1)
How does London reflect appearance vs reality?
The city shifts from ‘an air of invitation’ to ‘sinister’ streets, showing a respectable façade hiding corruption. (Chapter 1)
How does Enfield’s behaviour show hidden reality?
He is out at ‘three o’clock of a black winter morning’, suggesting secret activities beneath a respectable exterior. (Chapter 1)
How does the novella’s structure contribute to the theme?
Multiple narratives reveal different versions of events, showing truth is fragmented and concealed. (Chapters 8–10)
How does Jekyll’s house symbolise appearance vs reality?
The respectable front contrasts with the neglected laboratory, mirroring Jekyll’s dual life. (Throughout)
