Biblical Allusions and Point of View in Jekyll and Hyde

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Questions and Answers

What does Utterson's reference to 'Cain's heresy' suggest about his attitude towards personal responsibility?

  • He prefers to let others make their own choices. (correct)
  • He believes in actively intervening in others' lives.
  • He endorses ignoring personal relationships.
  • He thinks everyone should be held accountable for others.

According to the biblical allusion, what significant event does Cain's response to God highlight?

  • The concept of free will in morality.
  • The burden of familial relationships.
  • The consequences of evil acts.
  • The importance of taking responsibility. (correct)

What change in point of view occurs in the last chapters of Stevenson's story?

  • From first-person to second-person.
  • From third-person limited to first-person. (correct)
  • From second-person to third-person.
  • From omniscient to first-person.

How does Stevenson characterize Utterson's influence on others?

<p>As a positive yet passive influence. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the biblical story of Cain and Abel illustrate in the context of personal relationships?

<p>The dangers of neglecting loved ones. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant theme presented through Utterson's philosophy?

<p>The balance between friendship and distance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What literary technique does Stevenson employ by shifting the point of view?

<p>Multiple perspectives. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What implication does Utterson’s allusion to Cain's heresy suggest about his relationships?

<p>They prioritize individual freedom. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Mr. Utterson's demeanor as described in the excerpt?

<p>Rugged and cold (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Utterson do when he is alone?

<p>Drinks gin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

From which perspective is the majority of the story told?

<p>Third person limited (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase indicates the use of first person point of view in the text?

<p>I never saw a circle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about Mr. Utterson's character based on his enjoyment of the theatre?

<p>He has not attended in twenty years. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the narrator's choice of perspective potentially affect the reader's understanding of the story?

<p>It enhances the emotional depth of the main character. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What emotion does Mr. Enfield sense from the man in the middle of the circle?

<p>Fear and apprehension (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Mr. Utterson's attitude towards his own enjoyment of vintage wine?

<p>He feels guilty and mortifies himself. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Utterson's reference to 'Cain's heresy' primarily reflect about his philosophy regarding responsibility?

<p>He adopts a passive approach towards others' troubles. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which biblical story does Stevenson reference in relation to Utterson's perspective?

<p>The story of Cain and Abel. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What shift occurs in the narrative perspective during the last chapters of the story?

<p>From third-person limited to first-person. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is Utterson described in terms of his influence on others?

<p>As a stabilizing force among friends. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What central theme does the story suggest through Utterson's beliefs?

<p>The consequences of turning a blind eye. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative technique does Stevenson utilize by switching perspectives?

<p>Revealing deeper emotional experiences. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What philosophical question does Utterson's approach raise about interactions with troubled individuals?

<p>Should truths be confronted even at a cost? (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key outcome of Utterson's philosophy towards those in trouble?

<p>Potential alienation from those needing help. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What internal conflict does Mr. Utterson experience throughout the novella?

<p>Deciding to help Jekyll or avoid his problems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character is identified as a flat character in the story?

<p>Mr. Hyde (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event serves as the crisis or turning point in the story?

<p>The moment Utterson and Poole find Mr. Hyde dead (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative technique does Stevenson use to create an apprehensive mood before the crisis?

<p>Vivid descriptions of the setting (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason that Utterson begins to withdraw from Jekyll towards the end of Chapter 6?

<p>He becomes indifferent to Jekyll's issues (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of Mr. Utterson's character is highlighted as being complex?

<p>His conflict between law and friendship (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which events contributed to the rising action leading to the story's crisis?

<p>Lanyon's death and Carew's murder (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What literary quality is demonstrated by Mr. Utterson's attempts to help Jekyll while also withdrawing?

<p>Dynamic character complexity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of flat characters as compared to round characters?

<p>They have simple, one-note personalities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What element does Stevenson use to heighten suspense during the impending crisis?

<p>Atmospheric setting and specific imagery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Mr. Utterson's character is emphasized by his countenance and demeanor?

<p>He has a rugged and austere appearance. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Mr. Utterson manage his private vices according to the passage?

<p>He drinks gin alone to suppress his taste for finer wines. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative perspective is primarily used in the story?

<p>Third person limited (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What emotional reaction does Mr. Enfield have towards the man in the middle of the circle?

<p>He feels a sense of fear and disgust. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What societal issue is highlighted by the living conditions in Victorian London?

<p>Severe poverty and crime in slums. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrator imply about the contrast between different areas of London?

<p>There was a stark division between the affluent and the impoverished. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might Stevenson have chosen Mr. Utterson's perspective instead of Dr. Jekyll's?

<p>To create suspense and mystery around Dr. Jekyll. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the dismal setting of Soho symbolize in the story?

<p>The gloom and despair of the lower classes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one major social consequence mentioned regarding the economic depression in Victorian London?

<p>A growing number of women turning to prostitution. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What desperate action did many individuals take due to poor living conditions in Victorian London?

<p>They turned to opium dens for relief. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes how Mr. Utterson is viewed by others at social gatherings?

<p>He is respected for his legal wisdom. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it imply when it is stated that Mr. Utterson's thoughts never find their way into his talk?

<p>He tends to hide his true feelings and thoughts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant historical change was occurring in London during the 1880s?

<p>Wealth was starting to circulate again after a rough period. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What prominent feature contributes to the atmosphere of the area where Mr. Hyde lives?

<p>Heavy fog (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character trait most closely describes Mr. Utterson based on the excerpt?

<p>Austere and serious (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the setting of the dismal quarter of Soho reflect Mr. Hyde's character?

<p>It symbolizes his lack of morality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What overarching theme does Stevenson's description of the setting convey?

<p>The struggle between good and evil (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect does the fog have on the narrative surrounding Mr. Hyde?

<p>It enhances the sense of mystery and foreboding. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the social conditions portrayed in the desolate areas described?

<p>They illustrate neglect and poverty. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the image of ragged children and women seeking alcohol suggest about society?

<p>There is widespread despair and addiction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of Mr. Utterson's character is highlighted through his actions at friendly meetings?

<p>His underlying warmth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Stevenson contrast the neighborhood with Mr. Hyde's lifestyle?

<p>Hyde embraces the misery of the neighborhood. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What narrative purpose does the repeated description of the area serve?

<p>To foreshadow future events. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'blackguardly surroundings' suggest about the environment?

<p>It is characterized by moral degradation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best characterizes Mr. Utterson's drinking habits?

<p>He drinks alone as a form of self-mortification. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the description of the environment play in establishing a mood within the narrative?

<p>It enhances the themes of horror and tension. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which description best captures the overall impression of Soho as depicted in the text?

<p>A neglected and grimy neighborhood. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Cain's Heresy

The belief that one is not responsible for the well-being of others, especially family.

Third-Person Limited POV

Refers to the practice of narrating a story from the perspective of a specific character, revealing only their thoughts and limited observations of others.

First-person POV

The perspective where the narrator is directly involved in the story, using 'I' and 'my' to tell the events.

Confession

A type of writing where a character confesses their secrets or reveals the truth about their past with their own perspective and voice.

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Point of View Shift

The shift in the perspective used to tell a story, switching from one character's viewpoint to another.

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Allusion

The act of using a reference to a person, place, event or work of art from history, literature or culture to enhance meaning.

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Biblical Allusion

Directly referencing a Bible passage within a literary work.

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Multiple POVs in Jekyll and Hyde

Stevenson's use of various points of view in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde allows for deeper understanding of the characters' thoughts and motivations, making the story more complex and engaging.

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Third Person Omniscient POV

The narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all the characters.

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Mixing Points of View

A writing technique where different viewpoints are used within a single story.

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Perspective Choice: Mr. Utterson

Stevenson chose to tell most of the story through Mr. Utterson because he is a reliable and observant character. This allows the reader to piece together the mystery of Dr. Jekyll's secrets gradually.

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Impact of Perspective Choice

By focusing on Mr. Utterson's viewpoint, Stevenson builds suspense and creates an air of mystery around Dr. Jekyll's true nature. This choice enhances the impact of the story.

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Importance of Perspective

The narrator's perspective can influence how the reader interprets the characters and events in a story.

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Benefits of Mixing POVs

The use of different points of view can make a story more complex, engaging, and reveal different layers of the characters and plot.

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First person point of view

The perspective where the narrator is directly involved in the story, using 'I' and 'my' to tell the events.

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Third person limited point of view

The perspective where the narrator is not a character in the story, but can tell the thoughts and feelings of one specific character.

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Utterson's perspective

The story is told from Mr. Utterson's perspective, revealing only his thoughts and observations.

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Multiple points of view

The story is told from multiple characters' perspectives, providing a richer understanding of the events.

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Effect of Utterson's perspective

The choice of narrating the story from Mr. Utterson's perspective serves to create a sense of mystery and suspense, as the reader gradually discovers the truth about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

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Advantages of mixing POVs

The use of multiple points of view makes the story more engaging and allows readers to experience the events from different angles.

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Social divide in Victorian London

The stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor in Victorian London is a key theme in the story.

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The slums of London

The slums of Victorian London are depicted as dark, depressing, and crime-ridden.

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East End of London

The East End of London was known for its high crime rates and poverty.

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Impacts of poverty in London

The extreme poverty and deplorable living conditions in the slums of Victorian London contributed to the spread of disease and crime.

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Contrasting views of Victorian London

The contrasting descriptions of Victorian London highlight the stark reality of the time, where wealth and privilege coexisted with poverty and despair.

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Atmosphere of the slums

The descriptions of the slums in Jekyll and Hyde create a sense of unease and foreshadow the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface of Victorian society.

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Importance of London in the story

The setting of Jekyll and Hyde in Victorian London is crucial to understanding the story's themes.

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The slums as a symbol

The slums of Victorian London provide a backdrop for the story's exploration of duality, morality, and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of society.

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Setting and characterization

The use of setting and characterization in Jekyll and Hyde helps to create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense.

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Round Character

A character with a complex, multi-faceted personality and motivations, often changing and growing throughout the story.

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Flat Character

A character with a simple, unchanging personality and motivations, often predictable and lacking depth.

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Crisis/Turning Point

The point in a story where the conflict reaches its peak, and the main characters face a direct challenge or turning point.

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Exposition

The initial part of a story that introduces the characters, setting, and basic conflict.

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Rising Action

The events in a story that build suspense and tension, leading up to the crisis.

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Falling Action

The events that occur after the crisis, leading to the resolution of the conflict.

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Resolution

The end of a story where the conflict is resolved and loose ends are tied up.

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Static Character

A character who remains unchanged throughout the story, lacking any significant development.

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Dynamic Character

A character who undergoes significant change or development throughout the story, often as a result of the conflict.

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Mood

A mood or atmosphere created by the author through the use of words and descriptions.

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Protagonist

The main character in a story, often the most developed character.

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Description of Hyde's Neighborhood

The area where Mr. Hyde lives is described as dark, dirty, and filled with poverty.

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Setting and Character

The setting, such as Hyde's neighborhood, can reflect a character's personality and actions.

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Fog as Symbolism

The thick fog surrounding Hyde's home symbolizes hiding from the truth and goodness.

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Hyde's Enjoyment of Misery

The author's description of Mr. Hyde's neighborhood suggests that he finds enjoyment in human misery and debauchery.

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Mr. Utterson's Character

Mr. Utterson is a complex character with contrasting traits: he is both austere and lovable, and he struggles with internal conflict.

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Direct Characterization

The narrator reveals Mr. Utterson's character by directly stating his traits and providing examples.

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Descriptive Words

The narrator uses words like "rugged," "cold," and "backward" to describe Utterson's appearance and behavior.

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Theme of Good and Evil

The novel explores the struggle between good and evil, suggesting that evil can resurface even after attempts to suppress it.

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Persistence of Evil

The novel suggests that evil cannot be fully eradicated and will always find a way back into people's lives.

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Themes and Techniques

Stevenson's use of setting, characterization, and symbolism contributes to the overall theme of good and evil.

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Human Nature and Flaws

The novel's exploration of good and evil suggests that human nature is complex and inherently flawed.

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Contrast of Utterson and Hyde

The juxtaposition of Mr. Utterson's respectable nature with the darkness of Mr. Hyde highlights the conflict between good and evil within human beings.

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Study Notes

Biblical Allusions in Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

  • Stevenson uses an allusion to the Cain and Abel story in his description of Utterson.
  • The "heresy" referenced involves ignoring a brother's struggles, questioning the responsibility to intervene.
  • Genesis 4 describes God questioning Cain about Abel's whereabouts, with Cain responding, "Am I my brother's keeper?" This highlights the moral dilemma of whether to intervene in the struggles of loved ones, considering the potential for alienation.
  • Utterson's tendency to allow his friends to "go to the devil in his own way" constitutes "Cain's heresy."
  • This "heresy" results in Utterson becoming the last good influence in the lives of those who are "down-going."

Point of View in Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

  • Stevenson uses multiple points of view, shifting from third-person limited to first-person.
  • Primarily told from a third-person limited perspective, focusing on Utterson's thoughts and feelings.
  • Utterson's internal world is shown through his external actions.
  • The story uses Enfield's first-person narrative, presenting a different perspective.
  • Chapters 9 and 10 shift to first-person viewpoints: Lanyon's in Chapter 9 and Dr. Jekyll's in Chapter 10 adopting a confessional tone.
  • This shifting in point of view enriches the narrative, offering diverse perspectives and adding depth to the story.
  • Another biblical allusion, referencing the writing on the wall during the Babylonian King Belshazzar's feast (Daniel 5), appears in Chapter 10.

Example of Third-Person Limited Point of View in Chapter 1

  • The paragraph describes Utterson's personality through detailed observation of his appearance and actions.
  • The narrator relays information relating to Utterson, but doesn't describe the inner thoughts nor feelings of other characters.

Example of First-Person Point of View in Chapter 1

  • This sentence describes a scene through Enfield's perspective, showing his direct observation and emotional response. The use of "I" indicates a first-person narrative.

Victorian London Setting

  • Victorian London presented a stark contrast of opulence and poverty.
  • The wealthy enjoyed high society, culture, and merry-making, while the poor faced tough living conditions, homelessness, and slum dwellings.
  • Opium dens and widespread crime were frequent problems in the impoverished districts.
  • Irish immigrants, Jewish refugees, and others from Eastern European countries seeking refuge from political oppression significantly contributed to the diverse population.
  • Economic depression led to bleak housing, sanitation issues, and the propagation of diseases.
  • Prostitution was a prevalent problem in some areas.
  • A high level of police corruption allowed crime to flourish.
  • The story's setting serves to highlight the profound societal contrasts.

Setting & Characterization

  • Stevenson uses setting to reveal a character's traits.
  • The unpleasant descriptions of Soho's dismal quarter reflect Mr. Hyde's character.
  • The fog surrounding Hyde's home and nocturnal habits suggest his inclination to hide from the light, perhaps enjoying moral degradation.
  • The setting in Soho reinforces the contrast between wealth and destitution.

Round and Flat Characters

  • Round characters possess complex, conflicting motivations, characteristics, desires, and values.
  • Flat characters have a simple, one-note personality.
  • Mr. Hyde serves as an example of a flat character, exhibiting a one-sided cruelty and disregard for others.
  • Mr. Utterson, in contrast, is a round character, displayed through his internal struggles and contradictions.
  • The "Cain's heresy" displayed by Utterson, his internal struggles, and his behavior throughout the story are evidence supporting Utterson's complex personality.

The Story's Crisis

  • The crisis of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is centered around the events in Chapter 8, "The Last Night."
  • The rising action culminates in this dramatic turning point marking the climax.
  • Poole and Utterson's discovery of Mr. Hyde's death within Jekyll's study marks a serious turning point.
  • The use of suspenseful descriptive language preceding the crisis creates an atmosphere of apprehension.

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