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?

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

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

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

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

The balance between friendship and distance. (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

Multiple perspectives. (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

They prioritize individual freedom. (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

Rugged and cold (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does Mr. Utterson do when he is alone?

Drinks gin (C) Signup and view all the answers

From which perspective is the majority of the story told?

Third person limited (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

I never saw a circle (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

Fear and apprehension (D) Signup and view all the answers

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

He feels guilty and mortifies himself. (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

The story of Cain and Abel. (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

What narrative technique does Stevenson utilize by switching perspectives?

Revealing deeper emotional experiences. (D) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mr. Hyde (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Vivid descriptions of the setting (C) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

His conflict between law and friendship (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

Lanyon's death and Carew's murder (C) Signup and view all the answers

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

Dynamic character complexity (D) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Atmospheric setting and specific imagery (C) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

What narrative perspective is primarily used in the story?

Third person limited (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Severe poverty and crime in slums. (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He is respected for his legal wisdom. (B) 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?

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

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

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

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

Heavy fog (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

Austere and serious (D) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

The struggle between good and evil (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

They illustrate neglect and poverty. (C) Signup and view all the answers

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

There is widespread despair and addiction. (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

His underlying warmth (C) Signup and view all the answers

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

Hyde embraces the misery of the neighborhood. (A) Signup and view all the answers

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

To foreshadow future events. (B) Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A neglected and grimy neighborhood. (D) Signup and view all the answers

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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Description

Explore the rich biblical allusions and narrative techniques employed by Stevenson in Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This quiz delves into the implications of the Cain and Abel story and the shifting perspectives that shape the characters' experiences. Test your understanding of these literary elements and their significance in the story.