When does the theme of duality become fully evident to the reader?
Not until the final chapter (Jekyll’s Statement), though clues are hidden throughout.
How does the timing of Hyde’s appearance support the theme of duality?
Hyde appears before Jekyll, reinforcing the perception that he is a separate entity rather than an alter-ego.
What does Jekyll admit about his life before the potion?
That he lived a life of “profound duplicity.”
How does Stevenson describe Jekyll to hint at his dual nature?
As “large, well-made” but with a “slyish cast,” suggesting a secretive and deceitful side.
How does Jekyll’s conflict reflect Stevenson’s view of human nature?
It shows humans are multifaceted; Jekyll is not purely good, but a mix of high standards and malevolent yearnings.
How is the city of London used to represent duality?
Contrasting affluent streets exist immediately next to areas of degradation and poverty.
How does the physical house of Dr. Jekyll symbolize duality?
The front has an “air of wealth,” while the back (the laboratory) has an air of “sordid negligence.”
What does the back door lead to, and what does it symbolize?
It leads to Hyde; it serves as a metaphor for the repulsive and hidden side of the psyche.
How is Utterson’s appearance a contrast to his character?
He has a “rugged countenance” that never smiles, yet he is an “intense” and loyal friend.
What is Stevenson’s intention regarding duality?
To show that everyone is capable of both good and evil, reflecting a society caught between the past and modernity.
Theme 2: Good and Evil
How does Jekyll view the composition of a human being?
Man is not truly one, but truly two.
What does Jekyll call the bond between good and evil?
The “curse of mankind,” because the two parts are in direct, painful conflict.
What does Hyde’s constant presence represent in the novella?
The pervasive power of evil and the depraved nature that can reside in anyone.
Why do the victims—the young girl and Sir Danvers Carew—elicit such sympathy?
Because of their extreme innocence and “undeserving suffering” at the hands of Hyde.
How does Stevenson use imagery to contrast Carew and Hyde?
Carew is “beautiful” with “white hair” (light/innocence); Hyde has “ape-like fury” (darkness/animalism).
List four animalistic descriptions used for Mr. Hyde.
Savage,” “snarled,” “ape-like fury,” and “hardly human.
Why does Stevenson use animal imagery for Hyde?
To suggest his predatory nature and his total separateness from human society.
How is Hyde linked to religion?
He is associated with Hell and Satan; Jekyll explicitly refers to him as “my devil.”
Why is Hyde’s evil left “somewhat undefined” by Stevenson?
To make the evil feel more pervasive, terrifying, and universal to the reader.
What is Stevenson’s proposal regarding the “evil aspect of man”?
That it is merely suppressed by society, and attempting to separate it leads to catastrophe.
Theme 3: Secrecy and Reputation
What is the deepest secret in the novella?
The hidden relationship and shared identity between Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Why must Jekyll maintain a “veneer of respectability”?
If his dark secret were exposed, it would result in his “utter ruination.”