Jekyll and Hyde Chapter 2 Summary

Study Notes

Chapter 2 Overview

Utterson is disturbed by Enfield's tale, struggling to focus on dinner or reading.
He retrieves Dr. Jekyll's will, which names Mr. Hyde as the beneficiary, raising Utterson's suspicions about Hyde's influence over Jekyll.
The will contains a clause stating if Jekyll is missing for three months, Hyde inherits his estate, increasing Utterson's concern.

Utterson's Visit to Dr. Lanyon

Utterson seeks advice from Dr. Lanyon, a respected physician who shares a friendship with both Jekyll and Utterson.
There is tension between Lanyon and Jekyll over a scientific disagreement described as "unscientific balderdash."
Lanyon is unaware of Hyde's existence, heightening Utterson's anxiety about Jekyll’s situation.

Utterson's Growing Obsession with Hyde

Utterson is haunted by Enfield's story and dreams of Hyde, unable to discern his face.
He begins to watch the streets near Hyde’s residence, experiencing an eerie atmosphere resembling Enfield's earlier encounter.
Upon confronting Hyde, Utterson feels a visceral revulsion and questions him about Jekyll's whereabouts.

Dr. Jekyll's Representation

Dr. Jekyll is portrayed as a respected physician, characterized as a "large, well-made, smooth-faced man of fifty."
Known for his charitable works, Jekyll presents as a refined individual, yet his relationship with Hyde casts a shadow on his reputation.
Jekyll struggles internally with dual aspects of his personality, embodying the theme of human duality and the consequences of hidden desires.

Mr. Hyde's Representation

Hyde, linked to Jekyll’s darker impulses, has a disturbing presence, described as pale and dwarfish with a "displeasing smile."
His animalistic traits are captured through violent behaviors, reflecting a complete disregard for social norms.
Hyde’s actions include serious crimes, marking a shift in Jekyll's personality as the former begins to take control over the latter.

Notable Quotations

Lanyon’s concerns: "Henry Jekyll became too fanciful for me." Highlights disapproval of Jekyll’s scientific pursuits.
Utterson describes Hyde with phrases like "unknown disgust, loathing, and fear," emphasizing Utterson's immediate aversion.
Jekyll's neighborhood exudes "wealth and comfort," contrasting sharply with Hyde's dark and grim surroundings.

Key Character Details

Hyde's physical description underscores psychological deformity reflective of his moral character.
Utterson fears Hyde may harm Jekyll out of impatience regarding the will, indicating a looming threat over Jekyll's safety.

Themes and Analysis

The chapter explores the conflict between societal expectations and individual desires, foreshadowing the tragic consequences of suppressing one’s darker self.
The duality of human nature is emphasized through the juxtaposition of Jekyll's respectable façade and Hyde's monstrous behavior.

Description

This quiz covers a summary of Chapter 2 from 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'. It dives into Utterson's concerns and discoveries regarding Dr. Jekyll's will and the mysterious Mr. Hyde. Test your understanding of the chapter's key events and themes.